Evaluation of environmental potential in Parsabad, Moghan for urban development using GIS and AHP

Use of land ignoring the ecological differences and environmental potentials leads to adverse consequences and destruction of the environment, and eventually threatens natural resources and hinders sustainable development of the environment. Rapid expansion and development, lack of urban planning, and imbalance composition of Parsabad County call for implementation of proper management to prevent negative effects of development process and necessitate introduction of new zones for urban development. This study aimed to select appropriate directions for urban development within Parsabad County.
MADM was used with a focus on value and compensatory Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to weigh and combine the criteria in GIS environment. Urban development was completed using the criteria for ecological model of urban, rural, and industrial development. Moreover, some economic, social, hydrologic and hydro-geological criteria such as distance from wells, rivers, roads, airports, industrial zones, faults, and cities were also incorporated in this model.
Results revealed that from the total area of Parsabad County, 6238.2896 acres was suitable, 18146.5083 acres was moderately suitable, and 110121.067 acres was unsuitable for urban development. Suitable and moderately suitable lands for urban development landuse are mostly located in the northern part of the medium. At present, the spatial distribution of Parsabad population centers in this area mainy because of adjacency to Aras River, low slope and proximity to the residential area.