The Aral Sea, once a vital source of water and livelihood for Central Asian nations, has a tragic history of environmental degradation, and disturbing medical experiments. The decline of the sea began in the early 20th century when large-scale irrigation projects diverted water from the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers for cotton and crop cultivation.
All of these careless human activities resulted in the shrinking of the sea at a very rapid rate, affecting both the local communities and the ecosystem. It has also had long-lasting consequences, including community displacement, economic hardships, and health issues due to toxic exposure and nuclear radiation.
However, in recent years, efforts have been made to address the environmental crisis, including the construction of dams and canals to partially restore water inflow to the sea.
The video below is a project by a local organization named Aral Dream and it depicts the daily struggle of the population living close to the former sea.
Strains of the past
The shrinking of the Aral Sea has exposed vast stretches of the former seabed, which contain high concentrations of salt, pesticides, and other pollutants. As winds sweep across these desiccated surfaces, they carry toxic dust particles that are easily inhaled by the residents. This has led to a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, tuberculosis, anemia, and birth defects have also become increasingly common in the area.
As of January 2002, anemia alone was detected in 80%-90% of the population of Karakalpakstan, while 89% of the population in Kazakhstan experiences digestive problems, delayed sexual maturity, as well as reduced weight and height, Reliefweb reports.
More recent data from 2017 adds that the mortality rate in the regions surrounding the former seabed was 60-100 out of 1,000, while in the capital Tashkent, the rate was 48 out of 1,000.
Another problem is that water scarcity and contamination have also taken a toll on the health of the local communities. The diversion of the rivers that once fed the Aral Sea has left behind a contaminated, saline residue. The remaining water sources in the region are often heavily polluted with chemical residues from agricultural runoff and industrial activities. This has resulted in a rise in waterborne diseases, including gastrointestinal disorders, skin infections, and even cases of poisoning.
Furthermore, Vozrozhdeniya Island in the Aral Sea was used for unethical medical experiments related to biological warfare. While specific data on the impact of these experiments on the local population is limited, the deliberate release of deadly diseases in the vicinity raises significant ethical and health concerns.
The health system in Karakalpakstan has been strained by the multitude of health challenges faced by the local population. Limited access to healthcare facilities, inadequate resources, and a lack of specialized medical services have further exacerbated the situation.
Actions taken until the present
Efforts have been made to address health issues caused by the Aral Sea crisis through various healthcare programs, access to clean water, and raising awareness. However, the scale of environmental damage and its impact on communities, demand sustained efforts and resources.
In both Kazakhstan and Karakalpakstan, the health impacts on locals highlight the interconnectedness between environmental degradation and human well-being, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and effective public health interventions.
Numerous organizations have played a crucial role in providing assistance and support to the affected communities near the Aral Sea:
- The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has focused on improving water access, sustainable agriculture, and alternative livelihoods.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) collaborated with local health authorities to enhance healthcare services and assess health effects.
- The International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) worked on water management, land restoration, and access to healthcare and education.
- Various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as the Aral Sea Foundation, Eco-Forum of Uzbekistan, and Eco-Centre "Jaslyk" were involved in healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and awareness-raising projects.
Additionally, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, under investments and monitoring of the West, the huge barges filled with samples of smallpox which were buried by the Soviets, were once again excavated and gotten rid of, to reduce the environmental and health impact of the bacteria.
Current achievements
Progress has been made, including improved access to clean water, healthcare services, and sustainable agricultural practices. Capacity-building and awareness initiatives have educated the locals on health risks and environmental conservation. Collaboration with governments has led to policies for environmental management and social support systems.
However, the Aral Sea crisis requires continued support and integrated approaches. Notable efforts include:
- The World Bank's North Aral Sea Project constructed a dam to separate the North and South Aral Sea, increasing water levels and improving ecosystems.
- The Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (ICWC), implements water management strategies and conservation measures.
- Reforestation and afforestation to combat desertification and stabilize the soil.
- Wetland restoration to conserve biodiversity.
- Water management and conservation practices to ensure sustainable use.
- Environmental cleanup to remove debris and pollutants.
- International collaboration to share expertise and resources.
Positive results are evident, particularly in the North Aral Sea, where water levels and biodiversity have improved. However, the revival of the Aral Sea requires ongoing commitment, collaboration, and adaptive management strategies to ensure a sustainable future for the region and its communities.
There are accomplishments on both sides of the border, like the reforestation of the seabed with saksaul bushes in Karakalpakstan, as well as the revival of the sea in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan also managed to return 22 species of fish back to the Aral Sea, of which 14 can be used in commerce.
Prepared by Nigora Umarova
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