Water is the essence of life, yet it remains one of the most mismanaged resources on our planet. The increasing population, rapid industrial development, and the looming threat of global climate change have magnified the importance of efficient water management, especially in regions where water scarcity is a critical issue. One such region is Central Asia, where countries like Uzbekistan are pioneering efforts to manage transboundary water resources effectively. This article delves into Uzbekistan’s policies on water management, highlighting their significance on a global scale and the lessons they offer for the broader international community. – Gareth Stamp
The significance of transboundary water resources in Central Asia
Central Asia is predominantly arid, with its major water resources—the Amudarya and Syrdarya rivers—flowing across several national borders. The effective management of these transboundary waters is crucial not only for the sustainability of the region but also for preventing potential conflicts among the basin countries.
According to the 2023 water intake allocation by the Interstate Water Management Coordinating Commission, the total amount of water taken from the Amudarya basin is set at 55.4 billion cubic meters for the year, while the Syrdarya basin’s allocation was 11.8 billion cubic meters. However, due to unpredictable water levels and inefficient usage, the actual intake often falls short of these limits. This highlights the urgent need for a robust mechanism for the effective use of transboundary water resources.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) notes that Central Asia has sufficient water resources per capita, averaging around 2.3 thousand cubic meters. The real issue lies not in the scarcity of water but in its irrational use. Countries like Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are among the top ten global water consumers, emphasizing the necessity for efficient water management policies.
Uzbekistan’s water management policies
Since its independence, Uzbekistan has recognized the critical importance of water management, implementing significant reforms and policies to address water use and conservation. The 1993 Law on Water and Water Use and international commitments such as the Helsinki and UN Conventions on transboundary watercourses have laid the foundation for these efforts.
Uzbekistan’s Development Strategy for 2022-2026 includes a dedicated state program aimed at radical reform of the water resources management system. Key initiatives include water-saving measures and environmental protection efforts outlined in the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy. Presidential decrees from 2018 to 2023 have further cemented these reforms, providing a legal framework for the rational use of water resources.
International cooperation and diplomatic efforts
Uzbekistan’s foreign policy, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has emphasized regional cooperation in Central Asia. This approach has yielded significant progress in the peaceful resolution of transboundary water issues. Notable agreements include the 2017 establishment of the Uzbekistan-Kyrgyzstan intergovernmental commission on water issues and the 2018 agreements with Tajikistan on hydroelectric projects.
At the international level, Uzbekistan has advocated for addressing the water issue under the auspices of the United Nations. President Mirziyoyev, in his speeches at the UN General Assembly, has called for global attention to the region’s water problems and supported initiatives such as the creation of a platform for water-saving technologies in Central Asia and the establishment of the position of the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative on Water Resources.
The recent resolution by the UN General Assembly, co-sponsored by Uzbekistan, underscores the region’s commitment to tackling environmental challenges through sustainable development and regional solidarity. This resolution includes recommendations for sustainable agriculture, rational water use, energy efficiency, and the development of “smart cities.”
Domestically, Uzbekistan continues to implement comprehensive reforms. The creation of a separate Ministry of Water Resources and the approval of the Concept for the development of the water management industry until 2030 are pivotal steps. The recent decree on the introduction and development of a modern management system in water resources aims to streamline the sector’s operations and improve efficiency.
Technological innovations and water-saving initiatives
Uzbekistan is actively incorporating modern technologies to enhance water management. The introduction of digital and water-saving irrigation technologies has yielded remarkable results. The “Smart Water” initiative, involving the installation of online water level monitoring devices and the automation of water management facilities, is a significant step towards efficient resource use.
The country has also prioritized the concreting of irrigation networks, with plans to concrete 5,000 kilometers of irrigation channels in 2024 alone. This effort is expected to save up to 8 billion cubic meters of water annually. Additionally, the expansion of water-saving technologies, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, is being pursued vigorously, with the goal of covering all irrigated farming areas by 2030.
The role of public-private partnerships
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) play a crucial role in Uzbekistan’s water management strategy. The transfer of water management facilities to the private sector has improved efficiency, reduced electricity consumption, and lowered operational costs. Over 463 PPP projects have been signed, indicating a significant investment in the sector’s future.
Education and capacity building
To ensure the sustainability of these initiatives, Uzbekistan has launched the “Irrigators’ School” in collaboration with academic institutions and international experts. This program provides training for designers, contractors, and farm managers, equipping them with the skills needed to implement modern water management practices effectively.
Global implications and lessons learned
Uzbekistan’s approach to water management offers valuable lessons for the global community. The emphasis on regional cooperation, technological innovation, and public-private partnerships can serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. The country’s proactive stance in international forums underscores the importance of global collaboration in addressing water scarcity and climate change.
Water management is not just a regional issue but a global imperative. Efficient use and conservation of water resources are critical to ensuring sustainable development, food security, and overall well-being. As the world faces the increasing impacts of climate change, the strategies and policies implemented by countries like Uzbekistan provide a roadmap for a more sustainable and secure future.
Author:Sanjar Umirzakov, Independent Researcher, and the Press Service of the Ministry of Water Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan contributed to this article. Edited by Gareth Stamp
