Uzbekistan plans to increase the capacity of the Tuyamuyun hydropower complex, located on the border with Turkmenistan, by 1 billion cubic meters. The project aims to enhance the reliability of water supply and create a strategic reserve of fresh water for the population and the agricultural sector.

The expansion of the hydropower complex is provided within the framework of the state development strategy “Uzbekistan-2030,” approved by the government of the republic. The strategy focuses on the comprehensive modernization of water resource management, primarily in the agricultural sector, with an emphasis on upgrading irrigation infrastructure and introducing public-private partnership mechanisms.

According to expert assessments, increasing the volume of the Tuyamuyun reservoir will ensure more stable water supply for agricultural lands covering approximately 1.2 million hectares, as well as create an additional reserve of drinking water.

The strategy also provides for the phased reconstruction of distribution canals. At present, a significant part of the country’s irrigation network consists of earthen canals, which leads to substantial water losses. By 2030, more than 13,000 kilometers of canals are planned to be lined with concrete.

Special attention is given to improving the meliorative condition of land. The authorities intend to reduce the area of saline soils and lower groundwater levels in problematic zones through the construction and modernization of specialized drainage and melioration facilities.

In addition, the “Uzbekistan-2030” program envisages expanding private sector participation in the management of water infrastructure. It is expected that more than 2,000 facilities will be transferred to business operators under public-private partnership arrangements.

The Tuyamuyun hydropower complex is a major interstate water management facility located on the Amu Darya River. It includes four reservoirs—Ruslovoye, Kapakas, Sultansanjar, and Ittifak—connected by a system of canals and sluices, which ensures flexible regulation of water resources.

ORIENT