An analysis of the seventh development plan of Islamic Republic of Iran: Approach to water data and information

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Water Resources Study and Research, Water Research Institute (WRI), Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jwim.2025.395783.1232

Abstract

The unstable condition of water resources in Iran has made it essential to fundamentally revise the policies and governing regulations of water resource management. This article examines the approach of the Seventh Five-Year Development Plan of the Islamic Republic of Iran toward water data and information, analyzing the role of such data in effective water governance. The objective of this study is to evaluate the contents of Chapter Eight of the law, with a focus on data-driven water resource management, improving efficiency, protecting aquatic ecosystems, and enhancing transparency. The plan emphasizes the establishment of a national water monitoring and accounting system, the use of smart tools, the development of advanced remote sensing technologies, and the generation of accurate water resource and consumption balance sheets. Moreover, the role of data in policymaking, tariff design, water diplomacy, and local participation through water users’ associations is specifically highlighted. The findings indicate that the successful implementation of this law requires technical infrastructure, inter-agency coordination, skilled human resources, and continuous oversight. Ultimately, while the law represents a significant step toward smart and sustainable water resource management, achieving its goals depends on overcoming operational challenges, securing financial resources, and adopting modern technologies for data collection and analysis.

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References

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Water and Irrigation Management
Volume 15, Issue 3
December 2025
Pages 631-640

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