Azerbaijan sets water management priorities for coming years

Azerbaijan intends to focus on developing principles for more rational and economical use of water resources by expanding the use of modern irrigation systems, Zaur Mikayilov, chairman of the State Agency for Water Resources (ADSEA), said at a regional meeting dedicated to the State Program for the Development of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquaculture for 2026-2030, Report informs.

According to him, the use of drip and pivot irrigation systems, compared to traditional surface irrigation, significantly reduces water consumption while simultaneously increasing crop yields.

"A significant portion of the activities envisaged by the State Program are aimed specifically at expanding the use of modern and innovative irrigation technologies, creating digital monitoring and management systems, improving water metering, and strengthening cooperation mechanisms with water users. Further development of the agricultural sector should be ensured not only through the inclusion of new lands in agricultural production and extensive expansion, but also through the most efficient use of existing water and land resources," Mikayilov noted.

He emphasized that effective water resource management is not limited to the construction and operation of infrastructure.

"State control, monitoring, and compliance with legal requirements are of particular importance. It was for this purpose that the State Service for Control over the Use and Protection of Water was established by decree of the President of Azerbaijan dated November 17, 2023. Its main focus is state control over the correct, efficient, and legally compliant use and protection of water resources," the agency's head said.

According to him, key priorities also include compliance with water intake regulations, protecting water resources from various types of pollution, maintaining the ecological balance, strictly adhering to water limits, and preventing water loss.