Iran Must Move Its National Capital from Tehran, States President as Water Crisis Intensifies
The Iranian president has asserted that the nation has no alternative but to transfer its capital city from Tehran to the south of the country due to the city's over-expansion, inadequate water supplies, and the increasing threat of land sinking.
Proposal Discussed with Supreme Leader
Masoud Pezeshkian revealed that he had presented the proposal to the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the previous year. He admitted that it had faced significant criticism, but argued that the growing environmental problems were so severe that Iran now had a duty to shift the capital, with no alternative.
He spoke during a trip to Hormozgan province, which is situated on the Persian Gulf opposite Dubai.
"This region is situated along the shores of the Persian Gulf and provides easy entry to open waters and the development of trade and economic relations. If we have a different perspective on the potential of this region, we can build a highly successful and developed region. It is not sufficient to accept the current situation and not design a scientific, accurate and indigenous plan for the future," he said.
Water Crisis Affecting Key Urban Areas
"The problems the nation is currently experiencing require us to steer the growth trajectory towards the Persian Gulf. Tehran, Karaj, and Qazvin are currently facing a severe water shortage, and this issue cannot be resolved quickly."
Tehran has grown to a city of over 10 million residents, and consumes nearly a fourth of Iran's water resources.
Previous Leaders Also Raised the Idea
Previous presidents have previously raised the issue of moving the capital, such as Hassan Rouhani, who even proceeded to develop a plan with options.
Concerning Water Crisis Data
Pezeshkian has consistently warned about Iran's deteriorating water crisis. He said: "Last year, the precipitation was 140mm, while the average is 260mm; that means rainfall has decreased by about 50 to 60%. This year, the condition is just as critical." Some latest figures put the rainfall in 2025 at just below 100mm.
He continued: "The decline in water in the dams, the depletion of some wells, and the expensive process of transporting water from other areas all indicate the necessity for a change in approach. If we want to move water from here to Tehran, the cost per cubic meter will be up to €4."
Resource Distribution and Problems
Tehran's dams normally provided 70% of the capital's water, with the other 30% supplied by underground resources. However, low rainfall and higher evaporation rates have reduced the dams' contribution and raised stress on underground water sources.
"Growth without taking into account the effect on resources and costs will result in nothing but damage. If someone cannot establish this balance, their progress is doomed to failure.
"In some regions, the ground is sinking by up to 30cm per year. This is a catastrophe and indicates that the water beneath our feet is running out."
