Uzbekistan records second oil spill in Surkhandarya in recent weeks

Uzbekistan recorded a new oil-mixed liquid leak in Surkhandarya Region’s Boysun (Baysun) district on May 2 following a powerful mudflow, according to the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change of Uzbekistan.

The incident occurred at around 06:30, when heavy flooding damaged a protective trench, allowing oil-contaminated liquid to spill into the surrounding area. Preliminary findings indicate that the mudflow caused the structure to collapse, leading to the leak.

A joint working group, including specialists from the regional ecology department and environmental enforcement officers, has been deployed to the site. Authorities are currently assessing the situation and evaluating the environmental impact of the spill.

Officials stated that the situation has been brought under control, while monitoring and investigation efforts are ongoing. Additional information will be provided once final conclusions are reached.

Earlier incident was reported on April 23 in Boysun, where oil-contaminated liquid flowed into the Xongaronsoy (Khongaronsoy) River from a well operated by Surkhan Gas Chemical Operating Company. According to a special commission, around 1.2 tonnes of oil-mixed liquid entered the river after heavy rainfall, causing environmental damage estimated at over UZS 8.5bn ($670,000).

Cleanup operations were subsequently carried out, and the contaminated water was treated. Investigations into the earlier incident are still ongoing.