Abstract

Rapid urbanization and urban growth are complex problems in countries, such as Iran. The major goal of current research is to determine the spatial-temporal pattern of urban growth in Tehran megapole. This research can provide a background for more informed planning. Current research used historical maps and satellite images to determine the urban growth patterns for Tehran megapole for the time period 1921–2011. Spatial metrics were used to analyze the spatial-temporal pattern of urban growth at two levels: Tehran’s Megapole as whole and within the concentric zones in this Megapole. Results show that urban growth rate in Tehran megapole area can be divided into three major periods: (1) rapid growth rate (1921–1976), (2) very rapid growth rate (1976–1986), (3) slow and consistent growth rate (1986–2011). Results also show that urban growth in Tehran city follow tidal waves pattern and consequent phases of growth. These tidal waves are moving toward external edges of Tehran city. This research was an attempt to apply a remote sensing methodology for urban planning purposes. Also, it was an attempt to determine the pattern of urban growth in Tehran megapole which was not determined before.

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