Azerbaijan Tackles Freshwater Scarcity with Strategic Water Management and Infrastructure Rebuilding
Water scarcity is a global issue that affects over 40% of the world’s population, a crisis that resonates significantly in Azerbaijan, a country situated in an arid climate zone. The country’s freshwater resources are strained due to limited internal water generation, amounting to a mere 10 cubic kilometers, supplemented by an additional 20 cubic kilometers from transboundary flows. Exacerbating the situation is the historical exploitation and pollution of natural resources by Armenia during its occupation of Azerbaijani territories.
Tackling Water Scarcity Post-Occupation
Following the second Garabagh war, Azerbaijan has been focused on rebuilding its water infrastructure, with an emphasis on ensuring supply for drinking and irrigation. This includes the restoration of reservoirs, canals, wells, and hydropower plants. Significant projects are underway in the Garabagh and East Zangazur regions, key areas that hold about 780 million cubic meters of water, a resource crucial for local use.
Revitalizing Shusha’s Water Infrastructure
One city witnessing rapid progress in this regard is Shusha, where the water supply system is being significantly developed. This includes the restoration of historical springs and the construction of a new water supply dam and pipeline. The Sarsang and Sugovushan reservoirs are highlighted as key projects, contributing not only to irrigation but also to hydropower.
Strategic Water Management for Sustainable Utilization
President Ilham Aliyev has recently issued a decree aimed at improving water resource management to ensure sustainable utilization. This initiative is designed to bolster agricultural, industrial, and domestic supply, serving as a testament to Azerbaijan’s commitment to addressing water scarcity and rejuvenating the ecological health of its reclaimed territories.