In the Jogorku Kenesh, a call was again made to intensify work on the construction of a reservoir and an accompanying outlet canal on the Altyn-Dara River, located in the Chon-Alai region of Kyrgyzstan. This statement was made by deputy Akkulu Berdiev, expressing bewilderment at the current suspension of this ambitious project.
According to the parliamentarian, the implementation of this project involves not only the construction of a reservoir, but also the construction of a small hydroelectric power station. The stated goal – is the development of seven to ten thousand hectares of new land in the region, which, according to the deputy, is critical for the development of agriculture in Chon-Alai. «But for reasons unknown to us, this project has been suspended for today. I would like to appeal to the Ministry of Agriculture and Bakyt Torobaev, let them start construction», – Berdiev emphasized, pointing to the urgent need to resume work.
However, initiatives to build any hydraulic structures, especially in mountainous areas with their vulnerable ecosystems, inevitably raise serious concerns. The construction of a dam and the creation of a reservoir on the Altyn-Dara River can lead to irreversible changes in the hydrological regime of the river and affect the biodiversity of both aquatic and coastal fauna and flora. Questions arise about possible flooding of areas, changes in the microclimate and the potential impact on traditional animal migration routes or grazing conditions for the local population.
Any hydroelectric power station project, even one classified as «small», requires a thorough environmental assessment and the development of comprehensive measures to minimize the negative impact on the environment. Statements about the need to speed up construction without public discussion of the results of such examinations and mitigation plans are alarming. The interests of the region’s agricultural development are certainly important, but they should not be achieved at the cost of long-term damage to nature, which could ultimately negatively affect both agriculture itself and the quality of life of people.
The situation surrounding the project on the Altyn-Dara River highlights the classic conflict between the desire for economic growth and the need to maintain a fragile natural balance. The suspension of the project, the reasons for which, according to the deputy, are unknown, may be precisely due to the need to conduct additional research or reassess its environmental and social consequences. Transparency on this issue and open dialogue with all stakeholders, including environmentalists and local people, are key to making an informed and responsible decision.
Alexander Eskendirov (Rivers.Help!)
