@ekologuzenglish · Post #11880 · 11.03.2026, 10:02
#Rivers SyrDarya and AmuDarya on the brink: water scarcity is reshaping regional policy The water-energy crisis in Central Asia is becoming one of the key challenges for the region, including Uzbekistan. According to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, water availability per capita in the region has decreased by nearly 30% over the past 20 years. Climate change is intensifying the pressure: glaciers in the Pamir and Tien Shan mountains, which feed the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, are rapidly melting. An additional source of concern is the construction of the Qosh Tepa Canal in Afghanistan, which could significantly reduce the flow of the Amu Darya and affect water supply in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The situation is further complicated by an outdated water management system inherited from the Soviet era. Previously, a “water-for-energy” mechanism functioned in the region: Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan stored water in summer for irrigation needs in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, receiving energy resources in winter in return. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, this system largely broke down. Today the situation is further complicated by large hydropower projects such as Rogun Dam and Kambarata-1 Hydropower Plant. While these projects strengthen the energy independence of upstream countries, they also raise concerns among downstream states, including Uzbekistan. Experts say the region now faces a choice: escalating water conflicts or strengthening cooperation. For Uzbekistan, water is directly linked to food security, agriculture, and environmental stability. One proposed solution is the creation of a new regional mechanism for managing transboundary water resources and the joint implementation of water-saving technologies. Without such cooperation, water scarcity could become a major challenge for the sustainable development of the entire Central Asian region. 💧🌍 ☘️Read the latest environmental news on the @ekologuz page. Follow us and send your suggestions and wishes via @eklguz_bot Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Sayt | Youtube.
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