President calls for urgent reforms in Sistan and Baluchestan Province
Efforts underway to secure Iran’s water rights from Hirmand River: Minister
President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the current situation in Zabol and southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchestan is unacceptable to him as an Iranian and official.
He emphasized that visiting Zabol and meeting with its people has once again reshaped the perspective of officials regarding the type of services that must be provided, saying, “This situation must be improved.”
During his visit to Sistan and Baluchestan Province on Friday afternoon, Pezeshkian met with groups of people in Zabol and reflected on his past experiences in the region.
“Fifty years ago, I came to this area and spent time in villages like Zahak, Kuh Khajeh, and Deh Kolukhi. Witnessing the living conditions and challenges of the people back then changed my outlook on life and gave me a deeper understanding of the hardships and potential of this land,” he said.
The president highlighted the changes the region has undergone in recent decades, noting that Zabol, especially its rural areas, faces more challenges today compared to the past.
“Areas that were once lush and fertile have become much harsher due to drought and resource shortages. This issue requires serious planning and action to restore life and prosperity to the region,” he said.
Criticism of Chabahar development plans
The president criticized the lack of comprehensive and progressive plans for Chabahar’s development despite its potential as a gateway to the world.
“If Chabahar is supposed to be our gateway to the world, why are the roads and railways designed for it not aligned with its needs?” he asked.
During a meeting on the issues of southern part of the province, held earlier on Friday, Pezeshkian stated that his government’s visits to provinces aim to address problems within their capacity.
“I believe that if the people participate, we can solve the problems. Without their cooperation, the government alone cannot resolve these issues,” he said.
He added that after identifying the problems, he would discuss solutions with the governor and ministers. “I do not accept the idea of addressing education and healthcare issues in three phases. I believe these problems can be solved in one stage, provided the people join the effort. If we wait for others to solve our problems, we will remain stuck in the same situation.”
Pezeshkian noted that national and local officials would design a robust development plan for the region. “Unfortunately, the current development plans for the region are neither comprehensive nor forward-looking. Even the areas designated for tourism, if developed, will only worsen traffic congestion. The port is currently located in a place that requires passing through the city center. It’s surprising that, despite the vast land available, development plans are designed in a way that creates issues like traffic and environmental damage.”
Visit to Shahid Beheshti Port in Chabahar
On Friday morning, the president visited various sections of the first phase of Shahid Beheshti Port in Chabahar as he was briefed by officials on the port’s activities and development plans.
According to port managers, with support from the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, the port is currently handling regular import, export, trans-shipment, and logistical services.
Officials from the Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO) stated that studies for the second phase of the port have been completed, and its construction will begin next year to accommodate ocean-going vessels.
Minister of Roads and Urban Development Farzaneh Sadeq-Malvajerd added that the port’s development will not proceed beyond the second phase to protect local fishing docks, and new port locations are being identified for further expansion.
Belief in vision plan
On Thursday evening, Pezeshkian emphasized during a meeting on investment opportunities in Chabahar Free Zone that his visit to Sistan and Baluchestan aims to support the region.
“We have held numerous meetings with various agencies and have gained some understanding of the current situation. These efforts align with the Leader’s vision for the Makoran region,” he said.
The president criticized that the goals outlined in the 20-Year Vision Document are not being fully realized today. “This does not mean that the efforts made so far are insignificant. Major steps have been taken, and we appreciate them. However, the vision document represents the collective expertise of the country, approved by the Leader, which envisions Iran as a developed nation with leading economic, scientific, cultural, and managerial standing in the region. Achieving this requires significant effort, as it is not an easy task.”
Pezeshkian stressed that the vision document must become a shared belief.
“If we want to succeed in the world we live in, we must do everything in our power. What matters is not just reaching the goal but the effort made along the way. We must prepare all necessary foundations, environments, behaviors, laws, and regulations to achieve our objectives.”
Inauguration of Zabol-Zahedan highway project
During his visit to Zabol, the Iranian president inaugurated the final 200-kilometer section of the Zabol-Zahedan highway. At the inauguration ceremony, he noted that this is the incumbent government’s second visit to Sistan and Baluchestan since taking office.
“We will do everything in our power to address deprivations and solve the problems of the people in Sistan and Baluchestan and other deprived provinces,” he said.
Also, the minister of roads and urban development provided a report on the construction process of the highway, which cost approximately 25 trillion rials (about $31.25 million).
Pursuing Hirmand River water rights through dialogue
On the sidelines of the president’s visit to the province, Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi stated that efforts are underway to secure Iran’s water rights from the Hirmand River through dialogue with Afghanistan.
“Several projects are being implemented to provide water for the people of Sistan and Baluchestan,” he said on Friday.
Aliabadi emphasized the need to pursue the Hirmand water rights issue through interaction with the neighboring country. “Negotiations are ongoing, and the results will be announced soon,” he added.
The minister stressed the importance of water conservation, stating, “The Ministry of Energy is making every effort to provide sustainable and quality water for all regions of the country, including Sistan. However, water conservation in all sectors is essential to help alleviate the water shortage in the province.”