Iran -Afghanistan Hydro -political interaction for Socio -economic development of Lake Hamun basin in Sistan region

Lake Hamun plays a substantial hydrological and ecological role in the natural functioning of a major river basin shared between Iran and Afghanistan. Over the past 20 years, there has been a sharp decrease in the amount of water from the Helmand River entering Iran despite a formal treaty between the two countries. The Helmand River is the most important tributary feeding Lake Hamun. It is concluded that the reduction of inflow into Lake Hamun is not only due to climate change and the reduction of water resources but also to extensive water consumption, mainly in agriculture. This paper evaluates a strategy for the socio-economic development of the Lake Hamun Basin in the Sistan Region within the context of Hydro-political interaction in the transboundary Helmand River basin shared by Iran and Afghanistan. The results of this study indicate that improving the economic and social resilience of the people of the Sistan region under current conditions is a priority. Accordingly, strategic goals are proposed to promote the local economy, develop alternative livelihoods, and adapt to water and soil resources. It is suggested that supranational mechanisms for cooperation in the Helmand River basin be established, with priority given to establishing a regional database and information system and socio-technical modeling of the land and water resources system. This would allow interactions among the scientific, academic, and civil societies (local communities) and facilitate communications at the political leaders’ level. Both countries should understand that Lake Hamun’s transboundary issue is a regional challenge and thus can only be resolved collectively.

Iran -Afghanistan Hydro -political interaction for Socio -economic development of Lake Hamun basin in Sistan region Keywords:

Lake Hamun , Sistan Region , Socio-economic Development , hydro-political interaction , Iran , Afghanistan