An Evaluation and Critique of Research on the Issues Facing the Kashafrud River, Along with Proposing a Comprehensive Solution

Abstract

Critical to human survival, water resources, including groundwater and particularly rivers, are under threat from anthropogenic pollution. The major Kashafrud River, located in northeastern Iran, is a seasonal watercourse currently encountering numerous challenges. At present, a stretch of this historic river (Parkandabad to the basin's exit) carries wastewater, comprising industrial, urban, agricultural, and even livestock effluents, transforming it into a conduit for sewage. This study reviews existing research on the challenges faced by the Kashafrud River, including pollution, climate change, and its impacts, as well as reduced runoff and drought. It outlines the crisis afflicting the river and then explores solutions to mitigate the current conditions. This research process involved reviewing previous studies on the challenges of Kashafrud, conducting field visits, engaging in discussions with local residents, and validating these findings through consultation with regional water experts responsible for overseeing this water course. Research indicates that there has been a limited focus on the pollution issue in Kashafrud, underscoring the evident necessity for comprehensive scientific inquiry aimed at presenting suitable solutions to tackle river contamination. In conclusion, through analyzing solutions proposed in previous studies and summarizing their strengths and weaknesses, 13 practical solutions were presented to provide the most effective strategies for addressing the challenges of this significant river.

Keywords

• kashafrud
• sewage
• river pollution
• climate change
• drought