Azerbaijan Launches State Program to Upgrade Water Supply, Wastewater and Stormwater Systems in Baku and Absheron Peninsula
Baku, The Gulf Observer: On January 12, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev presided over a meeting dedicated to the State Program for the improvement of water supply, wastewater, and stormwater systems in Baku and the Absheron Peninsula for 2026–2035. During the meeting, President Aliyev delivered a comprehensive speech outlining the objectives, achievements, and future plans of Azerbaijan’s water infrastructure development.
In his address, President Aliyev highlighted the country’s significant progress over the past two decades in electricity, gas, highway, and water infrastructure, noting that almost all major infrastructure challenges have been addressed. He emphasized the strategic importance of drinking water and irrigation projects, particularly in Baku, Sumgayit, Absheron district, and the liberated territories, including the reconstruction of key reservoirs such as Sarsang, Sugovushan, Zabukhchay, Kondalanchay, and Khachinchay. Preparatory work has already begun for the Hakarichay and Bargushadchay reservoirs, which are expected to commence construction this year.
The President stressed that approximately a quarter of Azerbaijan’s internal water sources now come from territories restored to national control, reducing dependence on external sources such as the Kura, Araz, and Samur rivers. He underscored the need for sustainable management of water resources to meet the needs of the population, industry, and agriculture while addressing climate change and environmental protection.
President Aliyev outlined key goals of the program, including the construction of around 30 new reservoirs, installation of water meters to achieve full coverage, expansion of sewage services from 50 to 95 percent of the population, and the creation of a modern rainwater collector network in Baku. Plans also include modernization of the Hovsan water treatment plant, implementation of a digital management system, and the establishment of Azerbaijan’s first desalination plant to improve water supply for the Absheron Peninsula.
He emphasized that the program, to be implemented by 2035, will be financed through a combination of the state budget and foreign loans, ensuring high-quality execution without unnecessary delays. Public oversight and media coverage will play a key role in monitoring progress.
Following the President’s remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev and Chairman of the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency Zaur Mikayilov provided updates on the progress achieved so far and the upcoming measures planned under the program.
The State Program reflects Azerbaijan’s long-term commitment to ensuring sustainable water supply, modern infrastructure, and environmental security, contributing to the continued development and prosperity of Baku, the Absheron Peninsula, and the liberated territories.
