Such snowfalls are not new in Haji Omaran, which connects Erbil province with Iran. Every year the area is hit by heavy snowfalls.
Snow removing vehicles have been working for three days. The snow has suspended tourism and trade between Kurdistan Region and Iran.
Sardar Mala is the supervisor of the snow removal team in Haji Omaran. He told Rudaw on Tuesday that “2.2 metres of snow has been removed … We have dispersed over 75 tons of salt [to melt down the snow.”
Even when it is not snowing, a strong wind brings down snow from nearby mountains.
Only four-wheel drive vehicles and those with chained tyres can move on the snow without facing trouble. Some vehicles have been completely covered with snow.
Trucks and their drivers have been stuck on the border for days.
“We do not have bread and there is no restaurant. No one feels the responsibility to come and ask about our condition so that we can find a way to return to our country,” said Wahab Hamd, an Iranian truck driver.
