Tehran's Unsustainable Future Prompts Presidential Mandate
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Thursday, October 2, 2025, that Iran has no alternative but to relocate its capital from Tehran. The decision stems from a deepening water crisis and critical land subsidence issues that render the current capital unsustainable. President Pezeshkian stated that the idea, previously discussed with the Supreme Leader, 'is not a choice, it is a mandate.'
Severe Water Scarcity Grips the Capital
The water crisis in Tehran has reached critical levels, with key reservoirs serving the metropolis nearing depletion. Last year, rainfall measured 140 millimeters, a significant drop from the standard 260 millimeters, representing a 50 to 60 percent reduction. This year's situation is equally dire. Government figures indicate that 19 major dams nationwide are operating at less than 20 percent capacity, and the Amir Kabir reservoir outside Tehran holds only 6 percent of its usable volume. Other vital reservoirs, including Lar and Latyan, are also at historic lows. The cost of transporting water to Tehran could escalate to €4 per cubic meter, highlighting the immense pressure on the city's resources. Tehran, home to approximately 10 million people, consumes a quarter of Iran's water, with agriculture accounting for about 80 percent of the nation's water usage, often through inefficient methods.
Alarming Rates of Land Subsidence
Compounding the water crisis is the severe issue of land subsidence. Officials have reported that parts of Tehran are experiencing subsidence rates of up to 30 centimeters per year due to excessive groundwater depletion. In southwestern Tehran, this rate can reach an alarming 31 centimeters annually, far exceeding international thresholds where even 5 millimeters is considered a concern. This phenomenon, primarily caused by the over-extraction of groundwater for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use, poses a significant threat to the city's infrastructure, buildings, and historical sites. Iran is recognized as one of the five worst-affected countries globally in terms of land subsidence.
Makran Coast Emerges as Potential New Capital
The concept of relocating Iran's capital has been a recurring discussion for decades, often raised due to concerns over traffic congestion, pollution, earthquake risks, and water scarcity. However, previous proposals were frequently shelved due to financial and logistical challenges. In January 2025, the Iranian government officially announced its intention to relocate the capital to the southern coastal region of Makran, specifically mentioning Chabahar, to address issues like overpopulation, power shortages, and water scarcity. The Makran region is favored for its access to open waters and potential for new trade routes, offering strategic and economic benefits. The estimated cost for this ambitious relocation project ranges between $77 billion and $100 billion US Dollars. Two councils have been established to assess the feasibility of the move and to develop a sea-based economy in the Makran region.
5 Comments
Africa
Relocating the capital won't solve Iran's fundamental water management failures. It's a distraction.
ZmeeLove
A new capital on the coast can unlock immense economic potential. Visionary thinking!
Habibi
It's true that Tehran faces an unsustainable future with water and land issues, which demands serious attention. However, simply relocating the capital doesn't solve the underlying national water management crisis that affects the whole country.
Mariposa
The environmental challenges in Tehran are clearly severe and need addressing, but the proposed cost of $100 billion is staggering. I worry about the economic burden and how it will be managed without impacting citizens.
Muchacha
This is a massive logistical nightmare. It'll never happen efficiently, just drain resources.