Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• Ali Salajegheh ¹
• Vahid Payravand ²
• Mohammad Reza Sayyadi ³

¹ Professor of Tehran University

² PHD student of Watershed Management of Tehran University

³ PHD student of Range Management of Tehran University

Abstract

Underground dams, as a method for reducing water loss and contamination, offer significant potential for improving groundwater management. However, their implementation in Iran is accompanied by technical, social, economic, and institutional challenges. This study aims to develop a management framework for underground dam implementation using a grounded theory approach. This qualitative research was conducted following Strauss and Corbin’s grounded theory methodology. The participants included 14 experts in watershed management and underground dams with at least 15 years of experience, selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data analysis was conducted in three stages of open, axial, and selective coding; a total of 201 open codes were extracted and organized into 49 axial codes and 22 main categories. Validity and reliability were ensured through expert evaluation and agreement among coders.
Data analysis led to the development of a paradigmatic model for the management of underground dam implementation. Causal conditions included the inefficiency of surface dams and livelihoods were introduced as the motivation for paying attention to this technology. Contextual conditions Intervening conditions such as policies, regulations, operational barriers, social participation, and economic justification influenced the process. Key strategies included comprehensive planning, technological improvement, stakeholder engagement, socio-economic planning, and capacity building. Expected outcomes were enhanced water resources sustainability, developed economic efficiency and Sustainable agriculture, and achieves ecological balance. Underground dams in Iran can be considered as a complementary option depending on local conditions, and their success requires simultaneous attention to technical, social, economic, and institutional dimensions. The presented model provides a comprehensive framework for planning and managing underground dams projects, and by integrating effective factors and implementing key strategies, it can help reduce risk and create sustainable projects in the long term.

Keywords

• Axial and selective coding
• Data-driven
• Subsurface Dams
• Water resources management
• Watershed management