In a groundbreaking study published in ‘مسکن و محیط روستا’ (Housing and Rural Environment), Reza Kheyroddin from the Department of Urbanism at Iran University of Science and Technology explores the intricate balance between neighborhood rights and property ownership in rural settings, specifically focusing on Oraman Takht village in Kurdistan. This research not only sheds light on the cultural and social dynamics of rural settlements but also holds significant implications for the construction sector, particularly in regions where traditional practices clash with modern urban regulations.
Kheyroddin’s study reveals that the unique geomorphological characteristics of Oraman Takht have shaped a distinctive residential pattern that often finds itself at odds with contemporary urban planning laws. “The traditional customs and social agreements in these settlements are crucial for maintaining a balance between private property rights and public interests,” Kheyroddin states. This perspective challenges the conventional reliance on formal laws and regulations, suggesting that sustainable development in such areas can only be achieved through a deeper understanding of local customs and practices.
The research highlights that neighborhood rights, embedded in the social fabric of Iranian-Islamic culture, are not merely legal constructs but are deeply rooted in community interactions and agreements. By analyzing the social and built environments of Oraman Takht and comparing them with other villages like Masooleh in Gilan, Kheyroddin illustrates how customary agreements can resolve legal conflicts that arise from the tension between ownership rights and community welfare.
For the construction industry, this study presents an opportunity to rethink project planning and development strategies in rural areas. Emphasizing collaboration with local communities and respecting their customs can lead to more sustainable and accepted developments. “Urban laws and regulations alone cannot ensure the sustainable development of social and built environments,” Kheyroddin warns, urging stakeholders in the construction sector to engage with local traditions to foster better community relations.
As rural areas continue to face pressures from urban expansion, understanding the socio-legal landscape becomes increasingly important. This research not only contributes to the academic discourse around property rights and public interests but also offers practical insights for builders, developers, and policymakers aiming to navigate the complexities of rural development.
For those interested in delving deeper into this research, Kheyroddin’s findings can be accessed through the Department of Urbanism at Iran University of Science and Technology. The implications of this study are likely to resonate across the construction sector, encouraging a shift towards more community-centric development practices that honor the rich cultural heritage of Iran’s rural landscapes.