Vahid Hajiyev: New Settlements Are Being Designed in Line with Environmental Sustainability Principles

Jabrayil: Azerbaijan's Special Representative of the President for Jabrayil, Gubadli, and Zangilan districts, Vahid Hajiyev, addressed the event titled 'From Urbicide to Revival: Sustainable Reconstruction, Resettlement and Development in Azerbaijan's Liberated Territories' during WUF13. He discussed the destruction witnessed in Jabrayil, Gubadli, and Zangilan, highlighting the ruins as remnants of once vibrant cities and villages in Eastern Zangezur.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Hajiyev emphasized the significant displacement of people and large-scale destruction resulting from the occupation. He described the situation as urbicide, with urban life and living spaces deliberately destroyed, alongside culturicide, which involved the loss of historical, cultural, and religious heritage. Despite these challenges, restoration efforts have commenced. A persistent issue is the threat from mines, which continues to endanger lives. However, the areas inhabited by people are deemed sufficiently safe, thanks to the diligent efforts of deminers.

Hajiyev further explained that the primary focus extends beyond merely constructing houses. The objective is to establish infrastructure that facilitates dignified and prosperous living. New settlements are being designed with principles of efficient resource management, energy efficiency, modern public services, and environmental sustainability in mind. The aim is to create safe and sustainable communities for former internally displaced persons.

The first village constructed was Aghali village in Zangilan, followed by the nearby Mammadbayli village. Drone footage reveals Aghali village on the left and Mammadbayli village on the right, with a public service center located in between, providing essential state services. A school, kindergarten, and other social facilities are operational in the area. All houses are equipped with solar panels, capitalizing on the region's high solar energy potential.