KALBAJAR—The Istisu mineral water plant in Azerbaijan's Kalbajar district has officially reopened, bringing the region's renowned thermal spring water back to market after a three-decade break, according to Trend News Agency. The facility, known for its premium quality water with health-enhancing properties, began its operations following comprehensive modernization.

According to Trend News Agency, the restoration of the Istisu water plant was marked by the completion of a state-of-the-art facility equipped with fully automated bottling lines and robotic tank management systems, provided by the German firm Krones. The renovation began with a groundbreaking ceremony presided over by President Ilham Aliyev on June 26, 2022, and reached completion in 2024. This strategic initiative is seen as a significant step in utilizing Kalbajar's natural resources following the district's reintegration under Azerbaijani control.

The plant's production line operates with cutting-edge technology that preserves the natural qualities of the mineral water while enhancing safety and efficiency. During the bottling process, each glass bottle is meticulously inspected for any imperfections such as chips, stains, or foreign objects. Flawed bottles are immediately discarded, ensuring that only products of the highest quality reach consumers. The facility has the capacity to produce over 100 million glass bottles annually.

The official opening of the plant on September 2 was celebrated with the presence of President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, highlighting the national importance of the project. The event not only underscores the economic revitalization of the Kalbajar district but also Azerbaijan's commitment to advancing its industrial capabilities in the beverage sector.