In a strategic move to boost agricultural productivity and build climate resilience in one of the world’s most water-stressed regions, the World Bank has approved a $223.2 million initiative for Uzbekistan’s irrigation sector. The project, which is also supported by an additional 23.2 million reais from the Uzbek government, marks the first phase of a broader, regional program intended to modernize water management across Central Asia.
Uzbekistan’s agriculture plays a vital role in the national economy, contributing nearly 25% to the GDP and providing employment to millions. Relying heavily on irrigation in its arid climate, the country mainly depends on two major rivers—the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya—which supply about 90% of its water for agriculture. However, outdated and inefficient irrigation infrastructure has long hindered water use, leading to significant losses through seepage, evaporation, and inefficient distribution methods.
Compounding the problem, scientific assessments warn that climate change could reduce water availability in Uzbekistan by 30–40% through glacier melt, erratic rainfall, increased evapotranspiration, and recurring droughts. Meanwhile, irrigation demand is projected to rise by 25%, creating a critical need for sustainable and efficient water management.
Modernization for Resilience and Efficiency
The comprehensive modernization project, led by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Water Resources, is set to span five key regions: Karakalpakstan, Bukhara, Kashkadarya, Namangan, and Surkhandarya. The initiative is aligned with Uzbekistan’s 2020–2030 Concept for Developing the Water Resource Management Sector—a national strategy aimed at promoting water and energy efficiency while supporting rural livelihoods.
The project envisions a suite of targeted interventions designed to deliver measurable improvements by 2031:
Concrete Lining of Canals: Approximately 259 kilometers of eight major canals will be lined with advanced geomembrane materials to minimize seepage and reduce maintenance costs.
Gravity-Fed Water Supply Improvements: Where possible, canal beds will be re-sectioned and elevated to eliminate the need for energy-intensive pumping operations.
New Hydraulic Structures: Construction of around 470 new hydraulic devices will enhance the control and regulation of water flow across irrigation networks.
Smart Monitoring Systems: Installation of gated canal outlets equipped with flowmeters, combined with the integration of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, will optimize water service delivery and improve operational efficiency.
Impact on Agriculture, Water, and Energy
The project is anticipated to deliver wide-ranging benefits across several sectors:
Enhanced Agricultural Productivity: Improved irrigation infrastructure will benefit approximately 232,000 hectares of farmland, leading to increased crop yields and greater resilience to climate-induced water shocks.
Inclusive Development: The initiative is expected to directly improve irrigation services for around 180,000 people, including 80,000 women, thereby contributing to regional economic stability and social inclusiveness.
Substantial Water Savings: Annual water losses are projected to decrease by approximately 540 million cubic meters, ensuring more sustainable and efficient use of this critical resource.
Energy Efficiency Gains: The project will save over 165 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually by reducing reliance on energy-intensive pumping. Given that Uzbekistan’s 1,700 irrigation pumping stations currently consume nearly 7.2 billion kWh per year 16% of national electricity use these energy savings are significant.
A Regional Model for Integrated Water Management
Uzbekistan’s central role in water distribution throughout Central Asia means that the success of this initiative could have far-reaching cross-border implications. The World Bank-supported project is part of a larger regional effort to enhance water efficiency and conservation, setting a precedent for coordinated interventions across neighboring countries. Such cooperation is viewed as crucial for addressing the transboundary challenges of water scarcity and climate adaptation in the region.
By implementing modern, efficient irrigation practices, Uzbekistan seeks not only to secure its own agricultural future but also to contribute to the broader goal of regional sustainability and climate resilience.
Conclusion: A Catalyst for Change
With increasing pressures from climate change and a growing population, efficient water management is no longer a luxury but a necessity for Uzbekistan and the wider Central Asian region. The $223.2 million project, backed by both international and national investments, is expected to transform the country’s irrigation infrastructure, reduce energy consumption, and support higher agricultural outputs. If successful, it will serve as a model for other water-scarce nations facing similar challenges, demonstrating that innovative, sustainable solutions can drive economic growth while safeguarding vital natural resources.