Water problem in Central Asia

Uzbekistan

The countries of Central Asia are stuck in the grip of problems related to water resources, which not only lead to the loss of their economy, but also cannot satisfy the basic needs of the population. As a result of climate change and inefficient use of water, many areas remain without clean drinking water.

Water problem in Central Asia
Journalist Sanat Kushkumbayev stated in his article that if we calculate the water consumption figures of the population of the five countries of Central Asia, it is 127 million cubic meters per year, and about 80 percent of it, i.e. 100 cubic meters, is for agriculture. is used for its purposes.

But the sad fact is that only 50 percent of these numbers reach the area to be irrigated, and the rest is wasted on roads due to faulty water delivery devices.

Therefore, Central Asia is still 8 times lower than other countries in the global water consumption efficiency rating.

According to research, 3 out of 10 citizens of Central Asia do not have access to clean water.

According to the analyzes of the World Bank, if the population of Central Asia reaches 90-110 million by 2050, this will cause great problems in the area of water distribution.

Let's take a look at the issue by region, based on CAN EECCA's July study on water resources in Central Asia:

‌Kazakhstan.


The country is not independent in terms of water issues. Only 2.8 percent of the territory is supplied with water. The main water supply is provided by water resources located in neighboring areas. According to forecasts, by 2030, drinking water in the country is expected to decrease to 23 cubic meters.

Kyrgyzstan

In Kyrgyzstan, even the residents of the capital have been living without clean drinking water for several days. The government warns residents that drinking water should be used only for consumption, and that using it for other purposes will worsen the situation.

Uzbekistan

‌There is water shortage in almost all regions except the capital Tashkent. According to research, Uzbekistan ranks 25th out of 164 countries at risk of water shortage. In addition, by 2030, the population of Uzbekistan will increase by 40 million, and the volume of water will decrease by 7-8 cubic meters.

‌According to experts, there are several ways to solve or minimize the consequences of the problems listed above:

‌1.Mutual solidarity among states.

This multifolds the efficiency of water management. For example, it is expected that Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as mutual partners, will soon install water consumption meters on each other's territory, which will lead to effective results.

2.To improve the state of infrastructure of water supply devices.

If significant works were carried out in this direction, the large amount of water wastage observed in the agricultural sector would be put to an end.

3.Creation of alternative water sources. An example of this is the construction of transboundary water facilities.

In conclusion, the risk of water shortage in Central Asia requires quick and effective measures. In this regard, the most important issue is the cooperation and solidarity between the five countries.

Every effective and correct initiative can fundamentally change the lives of tens of thousands of people in the region for the better.

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