Rajai Shahr Prison, which had long been recognized as one of the symbols of imprisonment in Iran, was finally closed and its walls demolished following the continuous efforts of the people and officials. These developments were the result of the provincial visit of the Head of the Judiciary to Alborz Province in April 2023, during which the decision to close this prison was made.
Closure of the Prison After Years of Demand
In April 2023, with the visit of the Head of the Judiciary to Alborz Province, the process of vacating and closing Rajai Shahr Prison began. This prison was officially closed on August 6 of the same year after years of operation and holding prisoners. This action was seen as a significant victory for social activists and the families of prisoners who had long awaited this day.
Change of Use and Demolition of the Walls
After the closure of the prison, the collaboration between the judiciary and the governorate of Alborz led to the approval of a change of use for the land of this prison in the Article 5 Commission and the Supreme Council of Urbanism and Architecture. However, the remaining walls of the prison, as an obstacle in the urban landscape and creating suspicions about its closure, prompted the Head of the Judiciary to issue an order for the demolition of the walls during his visit on March 26, 2025, to Alborz Province.
The demolition operations of the prison walls began on March 27, 2025. However, due to the occurrence of the third imposed war and some other obstacles, the complete demolition of the walls was postponed until September. This demolition process not only helps improve the urban landscape but also demonstrates the officials' determination to reconstruct and change the unpleasant face of this place into a better living environment for citizens.
With the demolition of the walls and the change of use of this land, hopes for optimal use of the freed space and the creation of new facilities for citizens have increased. These developments reflect ongoing efforts to improve the social and cultural situation in Alborz Province, especially in the city of Karaj.
