Water Tourism: A Solution for Sustainable Development and Water Resource Conservation in Qazvin Province

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD student in Water Resources Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin.

2 PhD student in Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin.

3 BA student of Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin.

4 Master of Irrigation and Drainage, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin.

5 PhD student in Water Resources Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord.

6 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran.

Abstract
Objective: Water resource tourism is a contemporary global topic aimed at sustainable development. Developing this industry alongside water resources can alleviate severe water extraction pressures, promote cultural exchange and awareness of water history, provide alternative livelihoods for low-income regions, and enhance the attention to and preservation of historical water resources. Qazvin Province holds significant potential in historical water structures, and fostering tourism can be effectively achieved through this avenue. Therefore, this study aims to examine water tourism projects and studies both domestically and internationally through literature reviews and field visits to propose an initial comprehensive plan for developing water tourism in Qazvin Province.
Methods: In this regard, by collecting information on the water resources and structures of Qazvin Province through experiential visits, research, numerous meetings with experts in the field, and consultations with them, the superior potentials of the province were identified. Based on their characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses, the best option was selected.
Results: According to the quantitative analysis conducted, the Ab Anbar (water reservoir), which is essentially a hallmark of Qazvin Province, was identified as the top potential.
Conclusions: Considering the superior potential of the Ab Anbar for water tourism in Qazvin Province, its development and promotion can revive ancient water structures and raise public awareness about the importance and conservation of water resources. Simultaneously, by attracting tourists and creating alternative livelihoods, it is possible to prevent high-water-consuming activities and achieve sustainable development by reducing water consumption.

Keywords


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