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Social impacts of dam construction on stakeholders: A case study of Alborz Dam, Iran

Document Type : Short Paper

Authors

  • Mohammad Komeili 1

  • Jahede Tekeykhah 2

  1. 1 Institute for Humanities and Social Studies, Tehran, Iran.
  2. 2 PhD Secholar, Department of Forestry, Natural Resources and Marine Sciences Faculty, TarbiatModares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
DOI icon https://doi.org/10.22034/ewe.2025.499612.1997

Abstract

This study explores the social impacts of the Alborz reservoir dam on local communities, particularly focusing on residents living upstream and downstream of the dam. The research emphasizes the role of social capital, communication networks, and local participation in shaping the outcomes of dam construction. Using a qualitative approach and purposive sampling, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 346 individuals, including local officials, knowledgeable informants, and ordinary residents. The data were analyzed through a three-stage coding process, open, axial, and selective coding, and social capital was quantitatively assessed using numerical averaging methods. Findings reveal that residents downstream of the dam experienced predominantly positive impacts, such as increased social trust, enhanced local interactions, and greater social participation. In contrast, upstream residents, particularly those in 18 affected villages, faced significant negative consequences, including a decline in social capital, loss of social networks, and decreased participation in community activities. Additionally, the study highlights the very limited involvement of stakeholders in decision-making processes related to the dam, with their views largely disregarded. The research recommends strategies aimed at mitigating adverse social effects and fostering greater community engagement to promote sustainable and equitable water resource management.

Keywords

Subjects

 water resource management

References
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Environment and Water Engineering

Volume 11, Issue 3
March 2025

Pages 368 - 374

Files
History
  • Receive Date: 13 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 18 May 2025
  • Publish Date: 01 September 2025
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