Title: Tehran’s Water Security: A Strategic Push for Resource Management and Public Cooperation
In a decisive move to bolster water security, authorities in Tehran have intensified efforts to manage the capital’s critical water resources. A central pillar of this strategy is the systematic closure of unauthorized wells, a significant source of strain on the region’s groundwater reserves.
Cracking Down on Illegal Wells
Recent reports confirm that over the past six months, 935 illegal wells have been sealed in Tehran Province. The collective depth of these wells is estimated at 41,000 meters—a staggering figure equivalent to eight times the height of Mount Damavand. These wells were responsible for the illicit extraction of approximately 15 million cubic meters of groundwater annually, a volume that surpasses the current reserves of the Karaj Dam. This action represents a critical step in preserving the capital’s vital aquifers.
Public Conservation: Averting a Crisis
Analyses from the past summer indicated that, had consumption patterns continued unabated, several dams risked being taken offline by the end of the season. However, a 10-12% reduction in water usage by Tehran households successfully averted this scenario. This collective effort saved an estimated 80 million cubic meters of water, a volume equivalent to the capacity of the Latyan Dam reservoir, underscoring the pivotal role of public cooperation in managing limited resources.
Despite this progress, the average per capita consumption in Tehran remains at 185 liters per day, which is still significantly higher than the optimal target of 130 liters. Data indicates that only 34% of subscribers adhere to the recommended monthly consumption benchmark.
Infrastructure and Policy Measures
To enhance supply, the recent activation of the second Taleghan water transfer line has added 5,000 liters per second to Tehran’s water capacity. However, officials note this only meets one-eighth of the city’s drinking water demand. Alternatives such as large-scale desalination or long-distance water transfer from the southern seas are currently deemed unfeasible due to prohibitively high costs.
The current policy is firmly centered on avoiding water rationing and ensuring the equitable distribution of existing resources. To this end, the Water and Wastewater Company of Tehran Province has implemented a nightly pressure adjustment protocol on an alternating schedule to maintain a stable flow. Officials emphasize that buildings with standard reservoirs will not experience a noticeable impact.
A Collective Path Forward
Authorities assert that managing domestic consumption remains the most effective solution for navigating the current situation. Simple behavioral changes are highly encouraged, including:
- Installing water-saving devices on faucets, which can reduce usage by up to 30%.
- Ensuring washing machines and dishwashers are used at full capacity.
- Reducing shower times and turning off taps while brushing teeth.
Citizens can acquire these water-saving devices through facilitated payment plans via the 122 online system.
The path to securing Tehran’s water sustainability hinges on a dual strategy: continued rigorous enforcement against illegal extraction and the sustained, conscious cooperation of all citizens in conserving this precious resource.