On December 19, 2023, a scientific seminar on the topic “Hydrological Regime, Water Quality, and Utilization Level of the Kura River” was held at the Department of Geographical Ecology, Faculty of Ecology and Soil Science, Baku State University (BSU).

Doctoral student Elnur Nagiyev presented his research on the subject. The research focused on the lower course of the Kura River, including the cities of Mingachevir, Yevlakh, Zardab, Sabirabad, Salyan, Shirvan, and Neftchala. Data covering the years 2000–2022 were collected and analyzed to assess the hydrological conditions and ecological problems of these cities.

The study examined water use in the lower course of the Kura River between 2000 and 2022. For comparison, the levels of water use in agriculture and industry in 2000 and 2022 were analyzed.

According to the results of field studies and monitoring, untreated sewage discharge from the cities of Mingachevir, Zardab, and Shirvan into the Kura River has caused pollution and a decline in water quality. To ensure the efficient use of water resources, it was recommended to establish water treatment systems in interregional and inter-village settlements for the purification of groundwater, wastewater, and sewage in the study area. The seminar also emphasized the importance of developing a special map scheme for the placement of treatment facilities in the researched territories.

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 15: Life on Land