Aghdam: Azerbaijan is engaged in one of the largest reconstruction and return initiatives in the region, as stated by Emin Huseynov, the President's special representative in the Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavand districts. He shared these insights during his address at the event titled 'Housing at the Center of Recovery and Reconstruction After Crisis' held at WUF13.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Huseynov emphasized that cities and villages in these districts are being rebuilt from the ground up. This reconstruction adheres to principles of long-term sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience, with housing prioritized as a foundational element. He highlighted that secure housing facilitates the reopening of schools, revival of local economies, restoration of social ties, and community confidence in the future. A considerable number of former internally displaced persons have already returned to the reconstructed areas, with more anticipated to return in the coming years. New residential zones, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and public services are operational, aiming to restore normalcy.
Huseynov further elaborated on avoiding past vulnerabilities by building better, smarter, and more sustainable urban systems. Azerbaijan is integrating modern urban planning, green energy, digital governance, and sustainable infrastructure in the reconstruction process. The 'Smart City' and 'Smart Village' concepts are pivotal, with technology-based sustainable communities emerging in the mentioned districts. Some villages are already setting advanced examples.
The projects also incorporate renewable energy solutions, high-speed digital connectivity, and environmentally responsible urban planning. Hybrid energy systems utilizing solar energy and the national grid, along with two-way electricity meters, are being introduced in Azerbaijan for the first time. New solutions replace numerous individual boiler systems with centralized heating systems that are safer and more energy-efficient. This allows residents to regulate heating independently and pay only for the energy used, significantly reducing energy loss and CO2 emissions.