In the scorching heat of Baghdad, Iraqis are finding relief from the sweltering temperatures with "water-spraying fans" set up on the roadside. Due to long hours of power cuts during the summer, many people face difficulties in staying cool.
While some Iraqis pay for electricity from neighborhood generators, these sources often fail to provide consistent power due to fuel issues.
In the densely populated areas of Sinek and Alavi in Baghdad, local tradesmen are offering a free cooling service to citizens by installing water-spraying fans on the roadside during the peak hours of noon.
Passers-by seek solace in front of these fans to escape the intense sun, even if only for a brief moment. Some don't mind getting wet from the water spray as long as it provides relief.
Ali Kerim, an Iraqi who sought relief in front of the fans, expressed frustration about the prolonged power cuts. He said, "We were without electricity for 14 hours, and my T-shirt is soaked with sweat. Because of the scorching sun, I cool off in front of the fans installed on the roadside."
Mohammed Nazar from Baghdad also expressed his lack of trust in the government to resolve the electricity problem, especially during the summer months when it becomes chronic.
Nazar pointed a finger at the importance of the free water fans, saying, "I cool off for a few minutes every day as I pass by here. The free water fans on the roadside are a great service to humanity.
I left the tax office, came here quickly, and got cool. This is like a resting point; I cool off and rest a little, then continue on my way."
Mohammed Salah, the dealer of the ventilators, emphasized their consideration for the human dimension as they trade these cooling devices.
These water-spraying fans provide much-needed comfort to passers-by, who are affected by the extreme temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius.
