Large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly dam construction in Iran—a vast land with a rich ancestral heritage—consistently challenge cultural preservation. The rapid pace of execution and extensive geographical scales often hinder the efficacy of traditional archaeological field methods. While rescue archaeology serves as a vital intervention, issues regarding time constraints, high costs, and precision persist. This descriptive-analytical study explores the capacity of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyze diverse datasets, including geospatial data, satellite imagery, and drone photogrammetry. Research indicates that transitioning from traditional systems to machine learning models and intelligent agents can accelerate site identification and documentation. Furthermore, predictive analytics can mitigate the risk of heritage destruction before operational commencement. However, implementing suitable AI tools requires high-quality, localized data and a clear understanding of inherent risks. This paper examines these challenges and proposes an "Integrated Intelligent System" tailored for rescue archaeology in Iranian dam projects.
Alijamaat A. Application of Artificial Intelligence in Rescue Archaeology for Dam Construction Projects in Iran: An Integrated Intelligent System Approach. Iranian Dam and Hydroelectric Powerplant 2026; 13 (39) : A-10-1106-1 URL: http://journal.hydropower.org.ir/article-1-565-en.html