Saleh G. NagiyevVusala R. Akbarli2026-05-222026-05-222026-04-17https://doi.org/10.30546/209805.2026.3.1.2035https://rims.khazar.org/handle/123456789/1045The equitable distribution of economic and social development across regions constitutes one of the central strategic objectives. The expansion of the consumer base, the presence of a developed infrastructure network, and the advanced transportation systems serve as key drivers for population concentration in this area. However, the intensive nature of this development has resulted in the centralization of both population and economic activities within the capital, which not only gives rise to various challenges in the socio-cultural and ecological spheres but also impedes the development of other regions of the country, thereby exacerbating disparities in population settlement patterns. Furthermore, this situation complicates the efficient utilization of natural resources in these regions and hinders their sustainable development. The close interrelation between economic activities and social life has led to the concentration of a substantial portion of the population in this region, causing rapid urban sprawl both within the city and its surrounding settlements, and ultimately resulting in the emergence of an expansive urbanization zone. Effective management and regulation of these dynamics have become increasingly complex, evolving into a critical issue. Addressing these challenges requires the coordinated implementation of administrative, economic, and socio-cultural measures.encitysettlementurbanizationBaku agglomerationAbsheron-Khizi.journal-article