The current state of the Caspian Sea in terms of navigable waterways and its connection to open seas, along with an examination of the plan to link Iran’s northern and southern waters
Abstract
The plan to connect Iran’s northern and southern waters has been proposed at different points in time. One of its main objectives is to link the Caspian Sea to Iran’s southern open waters, with the primary goal of expanding maritime transportation. At present, the Caspian Sea is connected to open seas through two routes: the Volga–Don Canal and the Volga–Baltic Waterway. However, each of these routes faces specific limitations, including constraints on transport capacity. In this context, the project of connecting the Caspian Sea to Iran’s southern waters can be examined from various perspectives, including transportation, socio-economic, and environmental aspects.
Plan to Connect Northern and Southern Waters of Iran
The plan to connect Iran’s northern and southern waters aims to link the Caspian Sea to the Gulf of Oman. The preferred eastern route, 2,000 km long, crosses the Alborz mountains and eastern deserts. The canal would be 31–58 meters wide, 4.5 meters deep, require 500 million m³ of water, and cost an estimated 14 billion USD over 15 years.
Key Aspects of the Plan to Connect Iran’s Northern and Southern Waters
Transportation
The canal could facilitate trade between the Caspian and southern waters, but limited vessel capacity (5,000 tons) and high construction costs reduce its economic feasibility, particularly for oil transport.
Socio-Economic
The project could create jobs and strengthen infrastructure, yet the $14 billion cost and difficulty in securing funding make the return on investment uncertain.
Environmental
While it may help combat desertification, the canal could cause pollution, ecological disruption, and risks to groundwater and natural habitats.
This study was conducted at Islamic Parliament Research Center Of The Islamic Republic Of IRAN by Mehdi Mazaheri, and Yaser Hatamzadeh in 2022.
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