Azerbaijan has declared 2026 the Year of Urban Planning and Architecture, underscoring the country's focus on creating a modern, sustainable, and comfortable urban environment. In recent years, the country's cities have been actively modernizing: large-scale infrastructure projects are being implemented, public spaces are being renovated, and elements of smart urban management are being introduced. Issues of sustainable development, transport mobility, the preservation of historical and cultural heritage, and the creation of people-centered cities are gaining particular importance.

Furthermore, the liberation of Garabagh offers Azerbaijan a unique opportunity to build new towns and villages based on the most modern architectural and urban planning principles. In an interview with AZERTAC, Uzbek architect Shahzot Rakhmatov discusses which approaches to sustainable urban development can be most effective, which international practices should be considered, and how modern urban solutions can improve the quality of urban life.

- In recent years, Azerbaijan's cities have been actively modernizing and expanding. What key principles of sustainable urban planning, in your opinion, should underpin the development of modern cities in the country?

- In my opinion, sustainable urban development should start with a human-centered approach. Cities should be designed primarily for people, not only for cars or infrastructure. In fact, if you ask many urban planners and architects this question, you will often hear very similar principles.

Comfortable public spaces, walkable streets, and accessible services are essential elements of a healthy urban environment.

Another important principle is mixed-use development. When housing, workplaces, shops, and public spaces are located close to each other, cities become more dynamic and people rely less on long daily commutes. This approach reduces dependence on cars and encourages more active public life.

Finally, integrating nature into the city is very important. Green spaces, parks, and ecological corridors improve the environmental quality of the city and also create more pleasant places for everyday life.

- Baku and other large cities are facing rapid population growth and traffic congestion. What urban planning solutions could help make the urban environment more comfortable and functional?

- Traffic congestion is a common challenge for many rapidly growing cities. One of the most effective solutions is strengthening public transportation systems. Efficient metro lines, bus networks, and well-organized mobility systems can significantly reduce dependence on private cars.

At the same time, cities should become more pedestrian-friendly. Walkable streets, safe crossings, and bicycle infrastructure can make everyday mobility more convenient and sustainable.

Another important approach is developing multiple urban centers instead of concentrating everything in one central district. When services, workplaces, and public spaces are distributed across different parts of the city, people do not need to travel long distances every day.

A relevant example in our region is the development of New Tashkent, a new city currently being planned near Tashkent. The project aims to create a polycentric urban structure with integrated public transport, green corridors, and mixed-use districts. Such approaches help reduce traffic pressure on the existing city while creating a more balanced urban environment.

- After the liberation of Garabagh, a large-scale urban and rural reconstruction program began. What modern approaches to planning and architecture could make these territories models of sustainable and innovative development?

- The reconstruction of Garabagh is a unique opportunity to rethink how cities and settlements can be planned from the beginning. Instead of repeating traditional models, these territories could adopt modern approaches such as smart infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and environmentally responsible construction.

At the same time, cultural heritage plays a very important role in the recovery of the region. One symbolic example is the restoration of the Yukhari Govhar Agha Mosque in Shusha, which was among the first historical and religious buildings to be restored after the region was liberated. Reviving such landmarks helps reconnect communities with their cultural identity and historical memory.

Another key aspect is careful integration with the natural landscape. Garabagh has a very rich natural environment, and future development should work with the landscape rather than against it, creating balanced and sustainable communities.

- What international urban planning practices could be particularly useful for Azerbaijan? Are there any examples of cities whose experiences are worth studying more closely?

- There are many interesting examples around the world that offer valuable lessons. For instance, Copenhagen is widely known for prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists, which has significantly improved urban mobility and quality of life.

In recent years, Paris has also introduced important urban mobility reforms under the leadership of Mayor Anne Hidalgo. Several car lanes were transformed into pedestrian areas and bicycle infrastructure, and many streets were reorganized into one-way systems. These measures have helped reduce car traffic and create more comfortable public spaces.

Another interesting example is Barcelona, which introduced the Superblocks concept. By limiting vehicle traffic inside certain city blocks and prioritizing pedestrians and public activities, the city managed to create quieter and more livable neighborhoods.

Finally, Singapore offers a strong model of how dense urban development can successfully coexist with extensive green infrastructure and efficient public transportation.

Studying and adapting such international experiences can help cities develop solutions that improve urban life while still respecting their local context and cultural identity.