Mtkvari

Mtkvari, known in Georgia as the Mtkvari and in Turkey and Azerbaijan as the Kura, is a major river of the South Caucasus. It originates in the eastern Pontic Mountains of Turkey and flows northeast through Georgia before entering Azerbaijan and finally discharging into the Caspian Sea. The river’s length is commonly estimated around 2,500 kilometers, making it one of the region’s longest waterways. The city of Tbilisi sits on the river, and the ancient city of Mtskheta lies at its confluence with the Aragvi, a site of historical and cultural significance.

The Mtkvari basin spans portions of Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. Its major tributaries include the Aragvi in Georgia, and the Alazani in Georgia as well. The Kakheti wine region lies in the river valley, illustrating the river’s influence on agriculture and settlement. The lower reaches form part of the Kura-Aras Lowland in Azerbaijan, a broad delta region near the Caspian Sea.

Hydrology and use are central to the river’s role in the region. The Mtkvari supplies drinking water and irrigation, supports agriculture, and sustains several hydroelectric and reservoir projects along its course. Because the river crosses a tri-national basin, its management involves cooperation among Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. Environmental concerns include flow regulation, sedimentation, and pollution, particularly in the lower sections, prompting ongoing regional water-resource planning and ecosystem protection efforts.