Tehran's move: President calls for drastic measures against chaos!

Tehran's move: President calls for drastic measures against chaos!

Tehran, the pulsating capital of Iran, is simmering enormously. President Massoud Peseschkian is vehemently pushing for a rapid relocation of the capital. The problems facing the city — from overcrowding to massive air pollution — are reigniting the debate over relocation. Is there a future for Tehran, or is decentralization inevitable?

The change of capital is not a new topic. Even before the Islamic revolution in 1979, initial considerations were made to move the capital to a more suitable location. However, these proposals remained unresolved after the revolution. Peseschkian sees the move not only as an opportunity to improve the quality of life, but also as a strategic necessity to meet the pressing challenges. The main reasons include the large population, said to be around 15 million people, and the additional four million commuters who flock to the city for work every day. This massive immigration results in traffic congestion and an overloaded infrastructure.

At the gates of the city: challenges in tune with the times

Tehran is struggling with, among other things, high levels of air pollution, water shortages and land subsidence. The cost of living has risen to such an extent that young people are finding it difficult to afford their own apartment or enough food. Many continue to live with their parents, raising questions about the future generation. Housing prices have risen sharply in recent years: a two-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $426 per month, which has become unaffordable for many. This is leading to the gradual extinction of homeownership among the younger generations, who, with an average net income of $238, can barely afford their own accommodation. Even simple meals at inexpensive restaurants cost a trifle - prices often hover around $4 for a simple meal.

The living conditions in Tehran repeatedly lead to a discussion about decentralization. Experts advocate measures that could reduce the pressure on the city. Strengthening the provinces and relocating certain authorities would be steps in the right direction. The aim would be to reduce internal migration and relieve pressure on the overcrowded capital.

The future of the Iranian capital: coastal city as a possible port of relocation

Although Peseschkian called for a move to a yet-to-be-named location in the south or southeast of the country, there is already speculation about possible locations. Provinces such as Sistan-Baluchistan and Hormuzgan could be under discussion. But critics warn of the financial challenges of such a move, especially given the current economic situation and intensifying UN sanctions.

The challenges facing Tehran are complex and urgent. Peseschkian sees the relocation as a response to the city's noticeable weaknesses, but implementing it turns out to be an enormous task. A discussion about alternative solutions and creative approaches to decentralization could be the first step towards a more functioning Iranian society. But will Tehran be ready to change?

At a time when resources are dwindling and the population is growing, strategies must be developed that ensure the quality of life of Tehran residents. The discourse about relocating the capital remains exciting and could have far-reaching effects on the entire region.

For more information, see the articles from Bietigheim newspaper, Ad Hoc News and Numbeo.