Kazakhstan's Hydrological Triumph: Boosting the Caspian Sea by 1,2m

In a stunning display of hydrological prowess, Kazakhstan's Water Resources and Irrigation Ministry has orchestrated a monumental rise in the Caspian Sea's water levels. Through a strategic network of newly constructed canals and collaborative efforts with local authorities, the ministry diverted an astonishing 7.4 billion cubic meters of floodwaters from the Zhaiyk River into the Caspian, boosting its levels by an impressive 119 centimeters between April and May.

The Atyrau Region played a pivotal role, channeling an additional 350 million cubic meters through specialized canals meticulously maintained and fortified by Kazakhstani water experts. Notably, a 14.5-kilometer extension along the Sokolok Canal bolstered these efforts, ensuring a steady inflow of water into the sea.

Beyond replenishing the Caspian, the ministry's comprehensive approach extended to safeguarding Kazakhstan's broader water ecosystem. Over 12.4 billion cubic meters were redirected to reservoirs, estuaries, and wetlands, crucial for preserving biodiversity and sustaining agriculture. Lake Balkhash received a substantial 3.3 billion cubic meters, while ongoing efforts continue to replenish the Northern Aral Sea, with more than 1.1 billion cubic meters introduced since the year began.

This feat of engineering comes against the backdrop of severe spring floods that devastated communities across Kazakhstan, leaving thousands displaced and in need. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has prioritized swift government assistance and compensation for affected families, underscoring Kazakhstan's resilience and commitment to managing natural disasters effectively.

This initiative not only highlights Kazakhstan's capacity for proactive environmental management but also underscores its dedication to mitigating climate challenges while ensuring sustainable development for its people and ecosystems alike.

Specialists are actively directing water to Lake Balkhash, which has received approximately 2.5 billion cubic meters of water from the Kapshagai reservoir.

In another significant effort, the ministry successfully transferred 30 million cubic meters of water from Russia to the Kamys-Samar Lakes in West Kazakhstan Region, marking the first flow of water into these lakes in two decades.

Meanwhile, initiatives are underway to rejuvenate natural lakes and reservoirs in western Kazakhstan, addressing their recent drying trends.

Simultaneously, the Telikol lake system in Kyzylorda Region is benefiting from a substantial refill, thanks to a record discharge of floodwater from the Kengir reservoir in Ulytau Region.