TEHRAN: In light of growing urban challenges, the Iranian government is contemplating moving its capital from Tehran to a location along the Gulf of Oman.

This proposal has surfaced after years of discussions that have frequently stalled due to major financial and logistical barriers.

Recently elected reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian has reignited these talks, citing the need for change as a result of Tehran’s worsening conditions, marked by severe traffic jams, water shortages, air pollution, and land subsidence.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani announced in January that the administration was seriously investigating the feasibility of moving the capital, often mentioning the Makran region as a potential site.

The Makran area consists of an largely undeveloped stretch of coastline in Iran’s southern Sistan-Baluchistan province and parts of Hormozgan province.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has highlighted the goal of developing Makran into a key economic hub for Iran and its neighboring areas.

In recent comments, President Pezeshkian stressed the importance of shifting the country's economic and political center closer to the coast.

He noted that existing policies have worsened Tehran’s existing challenges, prompting calls for significant changes.

Lawmaker Ali Khazaei insisted that any new capital must embody Iran's rich cultural heritage, pointing out that Tehran has served as the nation’s capital since 1786, appointed by Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar.

The city has been a crucial political, administrative, and cultural center for more than two centuries.

Current estimates suggest that Tehran's population nears 18 million, along with about two million commuters.

Situated on a plateau at the foot of the Alborz mountain range, the city features a blend of modern architecture and historical landmarks.

In contrast, the Makran region is known for its fishing communities, sandy beaches, and ancient history dating back to the time of Alexander the Great.

Public opinion on the potential relocation remains mixed.

Some residents, like engineer Kamyar Babaei, worry about losing Tehran’s historical and cultural significance.

Urban planning experts emphasize Tehran's strategic benefits, particularly in emergencies, while others warn about the challenges of moving the capital.

Moreover, former Tehran mayor Pirouz Hanachi argues that the city's current issues could be resolved through targeted investments and urban development initiatives rather than by relocating.

The financial ramifications of such a significant relocation have not been officially assessed, although former interior minister Ahmad Vahidi indicated in April that costs might amount to roughly $100 billion.

While local media have discussed the economic prospects of Makran as a commercial center, concerns about the deterioration of current urban infrastructure add to Iran’s financial challenges, which are already exacerbated by long-standing international sanctions.

Additionally, reports point to environmental issues in the Makran region, including climate change and diminishing water resources, which could impede major development efforts.

Analysts suggest that choosing Makran as a potential new capital could align with Iran's broader strategic goals, enabling the country to compete with regional ports like Dubai and Gwadar in Pakistan, and might benefit the nearby port city of Chabahar.

This ongoing discussion reflects the intricate dynamics of Iran's urban policy, economic ambitions, and historical identity.