Iranrud () was a plan to build a canal from the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf. The former Soviet Union was eager to realize this project because its only warm water ports led to the Strait of Istanbul and the Dardanelles, which were under the control of Turkey, a NATO country.
There were two different proposals for the route of the canal:
History.
The idea of linking the two coasts via Iranian territory was first introduced in the 19th century. The first professional study was carried out in the 1960s.
The first iteration of this plan was written by Humaan Farzad in 1968. According to his plan, some link must be made between the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea. Three places were suggested: the Hamun-e Jaz Murian basin and two other places in Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir.
Many years later, the same plan was suggested to Mir-Hossein Mousavi, who was prime minister at that time.
Targets.
In addition to reaching open waters, there were more reasons to build this canal.
First plan.
Passing river through Lut would cause water to reach its thirsty grounds.
Second plan.
In response to a critical fall in Lake Urmia's water levels, this plan could bring enough water to this lake.
References.
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