Rehabilitation strategies for Tehran University Qanat in the frame of sustainable development

Historically, access to water resources had always been a key issue in the formation and perpetuation of ancient cities, more importantly in the arid and semi-arid regions like the central plateau of Iran. Based on the environmental situations, Persian civilization considered ecological realities and social interaction of conservation and proper distribution of the water to sustain its availability to all the users. Thereupon, they succeeded in achieving a lasting solution to the problem of the shortage of water. To overcome the inevitable climate condition, Iranians developed unique water structures such as qanats. However, as a consequence of modernization in the 20th century, the traditional water structures underwent considerable damage and were replaced by deep wells. These changes affected the groundwater supplies in turn and intensified the water crisis in Iran. Focusing on its importance in the sustainable development, this paper aims to study the qanat system. Introducing Tehran University Qanat as a vivid example, the role of qanats in a sustainable urban development is elaborated. Based on the analysis, suggestions are brought forward for the rehabilitation of this qanat. The findings of this research are believed to raise the awareness about the role of qanats in the sustainable development.