Measuring the Economic and Social Stability of the Cities of Mazandaran Province During Two Census Periods of 2006 and 2021

One of the challenges encountered by urban planners pertains to achieving optimal management and balance in the development of urban and regional areas. In relation to this matter, the primary objective of this study was to assess and analyze the trajectory of economic and social stability in the cities of Mazandaran province during the 2006 and 2021 censuses.

This study, characterized as descriptive-analytical in nature, relied on data obtained from government agencies and the aforementioned censuses conducted in 2006 and 2021. To determine the components of sustainability, a sample of 30 experts was selected using a simple random method. The questionnaire's validity and reliability were established through the calculation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Subsequently, the stability of 16 cities in Mazandaran province during the 2006 census and 22 cities during the 2021 census was evaluated employing the stability barometer, Electr, and Vicor models. Finally, the cities' sustainability was assessed through the utilization of the Copeland technique, which enabled the determination of the final ranking.

The findings from the utilization of sustainability evaluation methodologies demonstrated varying degrees of sustainability among cities. Additionally, the economic and social indicators revealed that the cities of Sari, Babol, Amel, Qaimshahr, Tonkabon, and Chalus exhibit higher levels of sustainability. Moreover, the city of Sari has consistently upheld its position of superiority due to its centralization in political-administrative affairs and the implementation of growth pole strategies, leading to the concentration of economic, political, and social activities and resources within the province.

In conclusion, the cities within the Mazandaran province have encountered distinct levels of stability, with the issue of instability primarily affecting small and medium-sized cities in terms of their scale, and predominantly associated with economic matters when considering indicators. Consequently, the implementation of solutions derived from this research offers the potential to foster stability and facilitate the development of cities.