Document Type : Research
Authors
1 Associate Professor in Political Geography, Department of Geography, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
2 Professor in Geography and Rural Planning, Department of Geography, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
Abstract
Local differences in the capacity of water resources, their exploitation and development outcomes resulting from water resources consumption are among the main challenges facing policymakers, planners and local communities. Iran is one of the countries facing a crisis in managing the consumption of water resources, and regional development of is not directly linked to its water capacities. Accordingly, the main question raised in this study is whether the development outcomes of water resources exploitation have been consistent with their capacity and extent of consumption in Iran. Drawing on a descriptive-analytical method and based on spatial data and official statistical reports on the state of water production and consumption on the one hand and analysis of the general indices of the global economy (GPD and added value of activities) and mixed development indicators (Gini coefficient and human development index) on the other hand, this paper looks into the relationship between water exploitation and its development outcomes in Iranian provinces. The argument presented in this research is that there is no correlation between the water capacities of different regions of Iran and the extent of their water exploitation and development outcomes. The analysis of the research findings shows that spatial, provisional and regional differences exploitation of water resources and the formation of development patterns inconsistent with capacities and natural and ecological resources will escalate debates on uneven and unbalanced development between regions and provinces of Iran. Further, enhanced exploitation of water in regions with high water demand and lower economic growth and added value in regional development plans should be given high priority.
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