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

This idea has surfaced after years of discussions that have often been stalled by substantial financial and logistical hurdles.

Recently elected reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian has revitalized these talks, linking the need for relocation to the worsening conditions in Tehran, marked by severe traffic jams, water scarcity, air pollution, and land subsidence.

In January, government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani revealed that the administration is actively exploring the feasibility of shifting the capital, with the Makran region frequently cited as a possible site.

The Makran area consists of a mostly undeveloped stretch of coastline within Iran’s southern Sistan-Baluchistan province and portions of Hormozgan province.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has underscored the ambition of establishing Makran as a major economic hub for Iran and its neighboring regions.

In recent remarks, President Pezeshkian pointed out the need to position the nation's economic and political center nearer to the coastline.

He noted that ongoing policies have intensified the challenges facing Tehran, leading to urgent calls for significant reform.

Lawmaker Ali Khazaei emphasized that any new capital should represent Iran's rich cultural legacy, reminding that Tehran has served as the nation's capital since 1786, when Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar designated it.

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

Current estimates place Tehran's population at nearly 18 million, alongside around two million commuters.

Situated on a plateau at the base of the Alborz mountain range, the city showcases a blend of modern buildings and historic landmarks.

Conversely, the Makran region is known for its fishing communities, sandy shores, and a history that stretches back to the times of Alexander the Great.

Public opinion remains mixed regarding the proposed relocation.

Some residents, including engineer Kamyar Babaei, voice concerns over the loss of Tehran’s historical and cultural importance.

Urban planning specialists highlight Tehran's strategic benefits, especially in emergencies, while others raise concerns about the difficulties of moving the capital.

Additionally, former Tehran mayor Pirouz Hanachi contends that the city’s current problems could be resolved through targeted investments and urban development initiatives instead of relocation.

The financial ramifications of such a drastic move have yet to be officially assessed, although former interior minister Ahmad Vahidi suggested in April that the expense could amount to roughly $100 billion.

While local media have explored the economic potential of Makran as a commercial center, there are worries about the deterioration of existing urban infrastructure, which adds to Iran's financial strain, already exacerbated by enduring international sanctions.

Reports also indicate environmental issues in the Makran area, such as climate change and diminishing water supplies, which may impede extensive development.

Analysts propose that choosing Makran as a potential new capital could align with Iran's broader strategic goals, positioning the country to compete with regional ports like Dubai and Pakistan's Gwadar, while potentially benefiting the nearby port city of Chabahar.

This dialogue continues to develop, reflecting the intricate relationship between Iran's urban policies, economic ambitions, and historical identity.