Shabran: The Takhtakorpu Reservoir, located in the Shabran district, stands as a critical hydraulic engineering facility essential for managing Azerbaijan's water resources and fostering agricultural development, reports APA's Northern Bureau correspondent.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the reservoir, commissioned in 2013, boasts a storage capacity exceeding 268 million cubic meters. It was constructed to regulate the Samur River's waters, aiding both agricultural irrigation and enhancing the drinking water supply.

Nizam Mukhtarov, Chief Engineer of the Samur-Absheron Canal Operations Department, highlighted that the reconstruction of the Samur-Absheron Complex began in 2006. As a result, the canal system's total length has been extended to around 400 kilometers. The Takhtakorpu Reservoir draws water not only from the Samur River but also from the Gusarchay, Gudyalchay, Garachay, Jaghajugchay, and Velvelechay rivers, currently holding approximately 266 million cubic meters of water reserves.

Mukhtarov noted the reservoir's significant contribution to ensuring an adequate drinking water supply for Baku and the Absheron Peninsula, especially during drought years. The reservoir was vital in mitigating water supply issues during the droughts of 2014, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

The facility's role extends beyond water storage, as it also generates electricity through its Hydroelectric Power Plant. The dam itself measures 142.5 meters in height and 1,180 meters in length. Safety measures are stringent, with 79 electronic piezometric sensors installed to monitor the dam's technical condition. The data from these devices is analyzed daily to ensure constant monitoring.

Experts emphasize that safeguarding water resources, creating new water infrastructure, and expanding modern irrigation systems will be pivotal for securing the country's water and food resources.