Iran, China launch 48,000-hectare dust control project
Iran and China have launched a joint project to restore the Salehiyeh-Alahabad Wetland in Qazvin and Alborz provinces, southwest of Tehran to tackle dust hotspots across an area of more than 48,000 hectares.
The project’s implementation plans were discussed at an online technical meeting over the weekend, Mehr News Agency reported on Monday.
The project focuses on water management, wetland restoration and improving local livelihoods.
The initiative involves the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the University of Tehran and Iran’s Plan and Budget Organization. It is coordinated by the secretariat of Iran’s National Headquarters for Policy Making and Coordination of Dust Storm Management.
The Salehiyeh-Alahabad Wetland degradation and the loss of vegetation can contribute to the spread of dust hotspots, affecting residents’ health and economic activities in surrounding areas.
The project’s first phase includes modifying drainage networks, reopening water transfer routes, establishing natural and artificial windbreaks, carrying out biological measures and using environmentally compatible mulches. Supporting and empowering local communities is also among the project’s priorities.
Behzad Raygani, secretary of the national headquarters on dust storm management, stressed the need for integrated water management, wetland restoration, conservation agriculture and the stabilization of critical dust hotspots.
The initiative is part of broader environmental cooperation between Iran and China and aims to improve coordination among the institutions responsible for addressing dust storms.