For the first time in five years, plan for water supply to the Aral Sea during the irrigation period has been nearly 100% fulfilled. A total of 977mn cubic meters of water has been directed to the sea, marking a significant achievement. In recent years, only 350mn-400mn cubic meters of water flowed into the sea, but since the start of this year, over 2bn cubic meters have been supplied, with an additional 500mn expected by the year’s end.

According to Zeinolla Kaztoganov, Deputy Head of the Aral-Syrdarya Basin Inspection, the current water volume in the Northern Aral Sea stands at 22bn cubic meters. 

“During previous irrigation periods, only 7-10 cubic meters of water per second entered the sea. This year, it’s 10 times higher, reaching 60-70 cubic meters per second,” Kaztoganov explained.

In addition, more than 45mn cubic meters of water have been directed to the Akshatau, Sorgak, and Kamystybas lakes, significantly benefiting local fisheries and tourism. The mineralization of the Aral Sea has decreased, leading to an increase in fish populations. Fishermen, who once barely caught 400 tons of fish annually, are now reporting catches of up to 7,500-8,000 tons.

Kuntugan Turganbaev, a 76-year-old fisherman from the village of Karateren, shared his optimism about the region’s future. 

“I have been involved in fishing all my life. With the arrival of water, the fish have come back to life. This year, we have more fish than last year. If we maintain the current water level, the fishing industry will thrive,” he said.

In parallel, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, in collaboration with the World Bank, is working on the second phase of a program to conserve the Northern Aral Sea. This initiative will focus on sustainable water supply as well as the development of economic and social projects for the region.