Iran has been experiencing a severe drought for six years, leading to critical water shortages in many cities, including Tehran. This prolonged dry spell has pushed the country toward what experts describe as “water bankruptcy,” exacerbating existing economic and political challenges. Amid these difficulties, attention is turning to traditional water management systems known as qanats.
Qanats are underground channels that have historically been used in Iran to transport water from aquifers to surface irrigation and settlements. Reviving and maintaining these ancient structures could provide a sustainable way to improve water availability and support communities facing water scarcity.
**Why this matters**
Water scarcity in Iran is not only an environmental issue but also a factor contributing to social unrest and economic instability. Exploring effective water management methods like qanats could help mitigate the crisis and support long-term resilience in the region.
Source: NewsData