Central Asia, including Kyrgyzstan, is currently facing an unprecedented heatwave, mirroring global trends. Summer temperatures are consistently on the rise, with Bishkek recording a scorching 47 degrees in early June.
Given its arid location and high air temperatures, Kyrgyzstan heavily relies on irrigation water for successful crop cultivation and food security.
“Currently, there are 1,24 hectares of irrigated land in the Republic. However, there is very little water in the mountain rivers. The inflow is small, that is, the seasonal snow has melted long ago, but the temperature is still not enough for the ice to melt high in the mountains in late May-June,” said Valery Gutnik, Deputy Director of the Water Resources Service of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The Issyk-Ata region of Kyrgyzstan is facing a severe drought, causing immense difficulties for farmers and jeopardising the country's food security. The scarcity of water, exemplified by the significantly reduced flow of the Norus River, is preventing proper irrigation of crops, leading to stunted growth and potential crop loss. With approximately two-thirds of the population relying on agricultural land for their livelihoods, this situation poses a significant threat to their survival.
The issue of climate change and its impact on the region's weather patterns has been repeatedly emphasised by experts, including climatologists who warn of increasingly frequent and intense heat waves. The changing climate necessitates adjustments in agricultural practices, such as cultivating drought-resistant crops or ensuring a water supply for irrigation during periods of low water availability.
Despite these warnings, many farmers continue to rely on traditional methods, unaware of the escalating unpredictability of the weather. Their reliance on outdated information and the reluctance to adapt to the changing climate further exacerbate the challenges they face.
The farmers, deeply frustrated by the lack of water and its detrimental effects on their livelihoods, are demanding immediate assistance. However, the waterers assigned to irrigate the fields are left unemployed due to the insufficient water supply. Their daily wait for water remains unfruitful, forcing them to return home without accomplishing their task.
The situation in the Issyk-Ata region highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address water scarcity, adapt to climate change, and support the agricultural sector. Efforts should be directed towards providing farmers with sustainable irrigation solutions, promoting awareness about climate change, and exploring alternative farming techniques to mitigate the impact of droughts. By addressing these challenges, Kyrgyzstan can work towards ensuring food security for its population and building resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.
In response to the water scarcity, resourceful individuals are resorting to transporting water by road, striking deals with drivers of vehicles equipped with water tanks. Although expensive, this method provides some relief and helps preserve crops.
The contrast between watered and unwatered fields is stark, with the former exhibiting lush, waist-high growth. Corn and alfalfa, commonly planted in the Issyk-Ata district of the Chui region, also thrive when adequately irrigated. However, experts caution against relying solely on corn cultivation, emphasising the crop's high water requirements and the need to consider the annual decrease in river levels.
In Bishkek, the water shortage has resulted in the closure of private pools, baths, and saunas, prompting residents to organise rallies to raise awareness of the issue.
Dedicated irrigators vigilantly monitor the drying crops, with some areas already experiencing crop loss.
Traditionally, irrigation in the Chui region heavily relied on mountain rivers like Norus. However, this summer, these water sources have significantly diminished, and the Karanda-Kolot River near the village of Internatsionalnaya has completely dried up.
Farmers express concerns that water shortages could lead to conflicts among them. It is now imperative to embrace new strategies and adapt to climate challenges. This includes transitioning to drought-resistant crops and implementing water-saving technologies.
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