Comprehensive Water Resources Management for a Sustainable Future Using the SWOT Model (Case Study: The Regional Water Company of North Khorasan)

Abstract

In strategic planning, it is necessary to take steps with a strategic approach. One of the important steps in using water resource strategies is compiling them. There are different models for this purpose. The purpose of the current research is to identify the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities of the Regional Water Company of North Khorasan and to provide comprehensive management strategies for water resources with a sustainable development approach. By studying the internal and external environment, the most important strengths and weaknesses, opportunities, and threats were identified. Then, by SWOT analysis, IFE and EFE matrices were formulated. The findings showed that there are a total of 16 strengths and opportunities as advantages and 20 weaknesses and threats as limitations. After determining the final coefficient of the factors in the matrices, the WT strategy (defensive strategy) was determined as a reactive solution, and by using the QSPM method, the following strategies were implemented: implementation of drought adaptation programs with an emphasis on the Establishing a cooperative management model and water user association and increasing water productivity, providing new water resources by establishing water diplomacy for the maximum use of water resources shared with the country of Turkmenistan and other waters (formation waters, salt water, etc.), establishing an integrated and mechanized water resources management system in the province, implementing passive defense and crisis management strategies, preparing an action plan to deal with critical situations and cyber threats and unforeseen events, empowering human capital and defining sustainable financial and income resources were ranked.

Keywords

• sustainable development
• strategic planning
• comprehensive water resources management
• productivity
• swot model