Baku: The main goal of the “National Strategy for the Efficient Use of Water Resources” is to ensure water security in Azerbaijan, strengthen water sustainability, and form a modern water management and water management system, said Aliaga Azizov, head of the department of the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency (ADSEA), during a panel discussion on the third day of the “Baku Climate Action Week” (BCAW2025).
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Azizov emphasized that the strategy’s primary aim is to enhance control over water resources and secure long-term sustainability. He outlined that the initial principles and directions involve assessing water resources, which necessitates conducting hydrological and hydrogeological research, collecting accurate data, and employing digital technologies like sensors and automatic devices. Efficient management of water resources through an integrated water management model is also a core focus of the strategy, aiming to manage both transboundary and internal rivers within a unified system.
Azizov highlighted the significance of basin management, particularly in water allocation to agriculture, which is the largest consumer of water in Azerbaijan. Minimizing water loss in irrigation and drinking water infrastructure is another crucial aspect, with a target to substantially reduce losses by 2040. Additionally, achieving 100% metering in the supply of drinking water is a strategic goal.
The strategy also aims to boost the use of water potential in the Karabakh and East Zangezur regions. As part of the ‘Great Return’ program initiated by the President, several projects are underway to ensure water security in these areas. Azizov noted that these principles and objectives have a long-term vision, extending until 2040.