The Caspian Sea has retreated 50 to 150 meters from its former shoreline in parts of Sumgayit and northern Absheron, hydrologist Amin Mammadov said, warning of economic and environmental consequences.
Mammadov based the estimate on his observations and monitoring in recent years. The distances refer to particular stretches of coast, not the whole Azerbaijani shoreline.
He said the retreat is already creating practical problems. In Sumgayit in 2024, exposed algae and other organic material produced an unpleasant odor that residents initially attributed to sewage discharge.
Shallower Water Could Be Costly
Mammadov identified shipping as one of the principal risks. If the water level continues to fall, the port at Alat may require more dredging to receive large ships and ferries.
Coastal ecosystems are also exposed. Shallow areas provide habitat for several fish species, while changing conditions near river mouths can make spawning migration more difficult.
The newly exposed land therefore should not be treated as an economic benefit. It may be followed by higher infrastructure costs and losses of aquatic resources.
Why the Water Is Receding
The hydrologist pointed to two main pressures: stronger evaporation as temperatures rise and reduced river inflow. The Volga, the Caspian’s largest source of river water, is particularly important.
Mammadov called for the Caspian states to coordinate water use and account for ecosystem needs when withdrawing water for economic purposes. Azerbaijan must also consider conditions on the Kura River, where intensive upstream use affects how much water reaches the sea.
Desalination Requires Careful Calculation
Discussing plans to use desalinated seawater, Mammadov said rising demand from the population and the economy makes additional sources necessary. The volume taken from the Caspian, however, must be assessed against the sea’s water balance.
Projects should consider environmental, economic and legal conditions together. Conservation appeals alone are insufficient; research into the causes of shallowing and coordinated measures by all five Caspian states are needed.
Source: Vesti Baku. The television interview is available on YouTube.