In the arid landscapes where Afghanistan, Iran, and Turkmenistan converge, the Harirud River Basin pulses with life, sustaining agriculture, energy production, and communities that depend on its vital flow. Yet, this transboundary water source is under threat, not just from climate change, but from unilateral actions that could reshape the region’s water security and geopolitical stability. A new study published in *Geosciences* sheds light on these challenges, offering insights that could guide future water management strategies.
The Harirud River Basin, also known as the Harirod or Tejen, is a critical resource in a dry region. It supports farming, energy production, and water supply for millions. However, the basin lacks a cooperative governance framework, leaving it vulnerable to unilateral development, institutional weakness, and climate stress. Mujib Ahmad Azizi, lead author of the study and a researcher at the Chair of Hydromechanics and Hydraulic Engineering at the University of Siegen in Germany, emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues. “The Harirud River Basin is a lifeline for the region,” Azizi states. “But without cooperative management, it’s becoming a source of tension rather than a foundation for stability.”
The study reveals that climate change has significantly disrupted the basin’s hydrological regimes. Since 1980, average temperatures have increased by about 1.7 °C, and rainfall has declined by roughly 150 mm. These changes have altered seasonal flows and intensified hydro-political tensions. Unilateral dam constructions, particularly in Afghanistan, have further exacerbated the situation, affecting water availability downstream in Iran.
Azizi’s research highlights the need for integrated water resources management (IWRM), joint hydrological monitoring, climate adaptation, and equitable benefit-sharing. “The Harirud River Basin has the potential to be a catalyst for regional cooperation,” Azizi explains. “By implementing IWRM and fostering collaboration, we can transform this contested river into a foundation for sustainable development and stability.”
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Hydropower plants rely on consistent water flow, and unilateral actions can disrupt these flows, leading to energy shortages and economic instability. “Water and energy are deeply interconnected,” Azizi notes. “Effective water management is crucial for ensuring energy security in the region.”
The study’s findings offer a roadmap for future developments in the field. By promoting cooperative governance and sustainable water management practices, the Harirud River Basin can become a model for transboundary water cooperation. As Azizi concludes, “The Harirud River Basin is more than just a water source; it’s a symbol of what can be achieved through cooperation and sustainable development.”
Published in *Geosciences*, this research provides a compelling case for the importance of integrated water management in the face of climate change and geopolitical tensions. As the region grapples with these challenges, the insights from this study could shape future policies and practices, ensuring a more secure and sustainable future for the Harirud River Basin and its communities.