Uzbekistan’s ambitious water management initiatives in 2024 have set a commendable precedent for the region, showcasing a proactive approach to a pressing global issue. The recent efforts to concrete 550 kilometers of canals and ditches have not only improved water access across 200,000 hectares of land but have also saved a staggering 450 million cubic meters of water for irrigation. This is no small feat, especially in a region where water scarcity looms large. The collaboration between farmers and agricultural clusters to concrete an additional 13,000 kilometers of internal networks speaks volumes about the grassroots commitment to enhancing water distribution and efficiency.
During a pivotal conference held in Tashkent on November 8, 2024, titled “Water in Central Asia: The Future is in Cooperation,” experts from various countries gathered to discuss the critical importance of water management in ensuring sustainable use across Central Asia. Minister of Water Management Shavkat Khamrayev opened the conference by highlighting the transformative reforms undertaken under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s leadership. The recent video selector meeting, which set ambitious targets for water conservation and efficient irrigation practices, underscores the government’s commitment to a transparent and effective water management system.
One of the standout initiatives discussed was the extensive application of water-saving technologies, which have already been implemented on 2 million hectares of farmland, with plans to expand this to another 500,000 hectares in 2025. The subsidization system of UZS 1 million ($78) per hectare for laser-leveled land is a game-changer, especially as it rolls out beyond Karakalpakstan into other regions like Khorezm. This financial incentive could drive broader adoption of modern irrigation practices, making water management not just a governmental mandate but a farmer’s ally.
However, the conversation didn’t stop at irrigation efficiency. The Minister pointed out the significant energy demands of Uzbekistan’s irrigation system, which relies on over 1,600 pumping stations. With President Mirziyoyev declaring 2025 as the “Year of Improving Pump Efficiency,” there’s a clear acknowledgment that energy efficiency is just as crucial as water conservation. This dual focus on optimizing both water and energy resources could serve as a model for other countries grappling with similar challenges.
Kazakhstan’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nurlan Nurjigitov, aptly noted that discussions like these are vital in the face of increasing water demand. The participation of representatives from Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and various international organizations highlights a growing recognition that water is a shared resource that transcends national borders. The conference resonated with a key message: sustainable water management requires collective action and responsibility.
As Central Asia navigates the complexities of water scarcity, the strides made by Uzbekistan in 2024 could very well serve as a catalyst for regional cooperation. The emphasis on innovation, transparency, and shared responsibility may inspire neighboring countries to adopt similar measures, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and cooperative approach to water resource management in the region. The future of water in Central Asia hinges on collaboration, and Uzbekistan is leading the charge with a clear vision and actionable strategies.
