Prisoners Held in Qazalhessar Prison in Karaj Are Deprived of Access to Clean Water

On Wednesday, July 10, the news agency of the Human Rights Activists in Iran reported that prisoners held in Qazalhessar Prison in Karaj have recently faced difficulties in obtaining clean water, which could endanger their health. According to 'HRANA', for the past 20 days, prisoners in Qazalhessar have only had access to clean drinking water for a few hours each day. The news agency stated that, in addition to health concerns and the necessity of access to adequate drinking water, the lack of immediate attention to this situation could lead to the outbreak and spread of various environmental diseases. A family member of one of the prisoners told HRANA that prisoners only have access to piped water for 7 hours a day, but even during those hours, the water pressure is very low. Based on information received by HRANA, the frequent water cuts this summer have prevented prisoners from regularly using the showers. Furthermore, the water shortage has made it difficult for prisoners to use sanitary facilities. Given the hot season and lack of water, the prison's sanitary facilities are maintained in a very dirty condition, which also puts the health of prisoners at risk. Family members of another Qazalhessar prisoner told HRANA that 'the hot season and frequent water cuts lead to the spread of skin diseases, tuberculosis, and other illnesses in the prison.' According to him, a water tank has been installed for times when water is cut off, which is only for washing hands and faces. HRANA quoted this person as saying that prisoners who are financially well-off buy water from the prison store at exorbitant prices, but not all prisoners can afford to purchase from the prison store. HRANA had previously reported on the frequent water cuts in the central prison of Karaj. Exclusive: Three political prisoners protested against water rationing, phone cuts, and censorship in Qazalhessar Prison. Reports from human rights organizations indicate violations of 'Mandela Rules' in Iranian prisons; the conditions of prisoners are 'inhumane.' A Qazalhessar prisoner was transferred to solitary confinement after a video protesting prison conditions was released. Testimonies from Qazalhessar prisoners about the increase in executions and violence; the prison organization claims they have 'welfare standards.'