Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan Akylbek Zhaparov expressed serious concern about the possible repetition of the tragic scenario of the Aral Sea and set complex measures to save the unique water reservoir at the meeting of the Parliament, 24.KZ reports.
The environmental situation raises serious concerns: Lake Issyk-Kul’s current water level is more than 1 metre below its historic mark. Experts note that the main reason is a dramatic reduction in water inflows. Of the more than a hundred rivers that feed the lake, a significant part either shallowed significantly or disappeared due to climate change. The situation is complicated by a number of unfavourable factors: longer dry periods, increased evaporation and reduced precipitation. Anthropogenic impact plays a special role — intensive farming has resulted in a great amount of water from the Karkyra and Kochkor Rivers being used for irrigation before reaching the lake.
Zhaparov noted that the Government is developing a strategy to save the water reservoir, which envisages international cooperation with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. It is planned to review the water export policy and hold an international science conference to develop integrated solutions. Large-scale work is underway to modernise irrigation systems in the country.
