Azerbaijan begins demolition of illegal buildings in liberated areas

The Restoration, Construction, and Management Service in Azerbaijan’s Khankendi, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts has announced the launch of the demolition of illegal buildings constructed during the period of Armenian occupation in Khankendi, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts. 

The removal of unauthorised structures is a key step in implementing long-term urban planning and infrastructure upgrades, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Elchin Yusubov, the representative of the Azerbaijani president in Khankendi, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts, stated that many of the demolished structures were built haphazardly, without compliance with Azerbaijan’s architectural or construction standards.

"These buildings pose safety risks and do not reflect the modern planning vision we are implementing," Yusubov said. 

He also announced the development of a new, large-scale campus for Karabakh University in Khankendi. As part of the project, surrounding areas are being cleared of non-compliant structures, while buildings that meet legal standards are being preserved.

In Ballija village of the Khojaly district, the restoration of 200 homes is nearing completion. Meanwhile, reconstruction and resettlement continue in Talish, Sugovushan, and Hasanriz villages of the Aghdara district. Returning residents are receiving support, with a particular focus on employment opportunities. 

To boost economic recovery, around 45 million manats ($26 million) in private sector investment have been directed toward job creation. Additional plans include the construction of processing facilities in Khankendi and the development of agriculture in both Aghdara and Khojaly districts.

By Naila Huseynova