The Strategic Role of Intermediate Cities in Regional Development: A Case Study of Bonab

Development of mediate cities has emerged as a promising approach to foster balanced regional growth and to counteract the challenges posed by the rapid expansion of mega cities. This study focuses on the role of Bonab, a mediate city, in the regional development of East Azerbaijan province. Employing quantitative models that analyze both population dynamics and economic indicators, the research utilizes a descriptive and analytical methodology. Data were meticulously gathered from library documents and existing literature, ensuring a comprehensive view of the factors influencing Bonab’s development. Population-related models indicate that Bonab exhibits significant flexibility in accommodating migrants, which has, in turn, resulted in an imbalanced urban structure relative to other cities within the province. The deficiency of settlements designed to host populations in the urban hierarchical system—specifically in groups ranging from 250,000 to 500,000 and 500,000 to 1,000,000—has diminished the city’s effectiveness in contributing to regional balance and a regular distribution of the urban hierarchy. This lack of structured settlement has hampered its potential as a moderating force within the province. On the economic front, quantitative models reveal that Bonab is uniquely positioned among the province’s mediate cities, as it possesses fundamental conditions in both the service and agricultural sectors. In contrast, other cities in the region maintain a robust agricultural base but fall short in industrial and service dimensions. Given these strengths, Bonab holds substantial promise to evolve into a central hub for service and agricultural activities, particularly benefiting the southern areas of East Azerbaijan province. By strengthening its infrastructure, attracting targeted investments.