An Investigation about environmental difficulties and problems of Kashaf River, Mashhad, Iran

Kashaf river is the largest river in Razavi Khorasan that was very important for people of Mashhad and perepheric rural centers in the past, but drought and precipitation decline caused it became dried. South-north steep of Mashhad plain has caused total run off of southern canals and urban Sewages enter the Kashaf river and pollute it. Occurrence of industrial manufactures on the bank of this river aggravates the pollution. Increasing population of Mashhad metropolis and new immigrants need settlements and Kashaf river region occupied by them. Informal settlement captured the Kashf river frontage and as a result, environmental problems have been increased. In addition lack of regional and urban management caused more difficulties. Methology of this research is descriptive-analytical and data gathering is by field surveys. Investigation indicates environmental pollution. It seems that public participation and authorities efforts can solve some problems.