Satellite images released by the Kazakhstan Garysh Sapary national space agency have revealed alarming signs of the Caspian Sea drying up. The images depict a denuded seabed in the northern part of the sea, indicating a significant decrease in water levels on July 11.
For the past 15 years, the national space agency has been diligently monitoring the conditions of the Caspian Sea, collecting and analyzing archival data from satellite images. Their findings indicate that the water area in Kazakhstan's portion of the Caspian Sea has decreased by a staggering 7.1%.
The observed changes in the water surface dynamics from 2008 to 2023 reveal extensive areas of shallow zones near the city of Atyrau, particularly at the delta of the Zhaiyk River. This region appears to be the most vulnerable to declining water levels.
Over the course of 15 years, the water surface area of the Caspian Sea has diminished from 113,866 square kilometers to 105,745 square kilometers. Such a significant reduction in size raises concerns about the long-term implications for the ecosystems and the marine sector.
The Kazakhstan Garysh Sapary national space agency has emphasized the urgent need to conduct a detailed study on this matter. The drop in the water level of the Caspian Sea has the potential to bring about negative consequences, impacting not only the delicate balance of the sea's ecosystems but also posing challenges for industries reliant on its resources.
Environmental experts are closely monitoring the situation, and the findings from the satellite images will aid in developing strategies to mitigate the effects of the shrinking Caspian Sea. Efforts are expected to focus on understanding the causes behind the decreasing water levels, which could include factors such as climate change, upstream water usage, and alterations in river flow patterns.
The preservation of the Caspian Sea is of vital importance, given its rich biodiversity and significant economic value. It serves as a critical habitat for various species and supports thriving fishing and oil extraction industries in the region. A decline in water levels could disrupt these ecosystems and jeopardize the livelihoods of communities dependent on the sea's resources.
Collaboration between countries surrounding the sea, including Kazakhstan, Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, may prove crucial in implementing effective conservation and management strategies.
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