Explosion at Kakhovskaya HPP Devastates Fish Population and Agriculture in Ukraine
Mykola Siutkin
You do business, we mitigate risks | Business Investment Risk Advisor | Co-founder of S&P Agency | Attorney | Co-publisher LDaily | Ironman
In a recent interview with Forbes, Mykola Solskyi, the Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, revealed the devastating consequences of the explosion at the Kakhovskaya Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP). The explosion, which occurred on June 6 and was attributed to the Russian military, resulted in severe damage to the region's ecosystem and agricultural sector.
One of the significant casualties of the explosion was the complete destruction of the fish population in the reservoir. The force of the blast caused water to rush downstream, carrying the fish with it and depositing them on the flood plains of dry land within the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions. As a result, all 85 fish farms downstream, comprising 49 in the Kakhov reservoir and 36 in the Dnieper-Buzka estuary system, were destroyed. The total loss of fish amounted to at least 11,388.3 tons, leading to significant economic implications for the fishing industry.
The impact on agriculture in the Kherson region has been equally devastating. The explosion disrupted the water supply, affecting over 300,000 hectares of farmland that relied on irrigation from the Kakhovka dam. Farmers who invested in irrigation systems for their lands now face immense challenges, as areas previously under irrigation have become unproductive. The loss of a permanent water source has forced farmers to subsidize non-irrigated land, resulting in decreased profitability. Estimates suggest that Ukrainian exports may suffer losses of $1.5–2 billion due to reduced agricultural productivity.
The process of restoring the dam and reviving the affected agricultural region is expected to take several years. Reconstruction of the hydroelectric power plant itself will require significant time, followed by a lengthy period of water refilling the dam. Additionally, the repair and restoration of canals and irrigation systems will be necessary. It is anticipated that the entire recovery process may span at least seven years.
The destruction of the Kakhovskaya HPP poses a long-term challenge for the agrarian business in the region. Farmers, who have been instrumental in developing the area over the past two decades, now face an uncertain future. The government will need to establish mechanisms to support farmers and ensure their motivation to continue farming despite the prevailing challenges.
The Kherson region is known for producing staple crops such as wheat, corn, sunflower, and soybeans. Additionally, it traditionally supplies a significant portion of Ukraine's vegetables and fruits. However, the loss of irrigation has severely impacted agricultural output, resulting in reduced vegetable and fruit production for at least the second consecutive season.
Efforts are being made to assess and address the aftermath of the disaster. Working groups have been formed to study the consequences of the HPP explosion, but due to the dangerous conditions and ongoing conflict, it is currently impossible to hold meetings on the left bank of the region. Regional military administrations are responsible for determining the damage and losses, following an approved methodology.
Moreover, the affected areas need demining to ensure the safety of farmers and civilians. As of June, over 1 million hectares of land were considered potentially dangerous due to mines. The State Emergency Service and the Ministry of Defense are prioritizing demining activities in collaboration with private mine action operators.
The explosion at the Kakhovskaya HPP has not only caused immediate destruction but has also raised concerns about the long-term consequences for the region's ecosystem, economy, and food security. The recovery and restoration process will require sustained efforts and support from the government, as well as a focus on developing strategies to mitigate the impact on agriculture and aid affected farmers.
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