The Qosh Tepa Canal, currently under construction, is projected to bring an average annual revenue of $500mn to Afghanistan upon completion. This financial forecast was shared by Najibullah Sadid, an expert in water resources management, in an interview with Tolonews.
The canal is expected to transform Afghanistan’s agricultural landscape, particularly in wheat production, moving the country towards self-sufficiency and bolstering its economy.
"After the completion of Qosh Tepa and all its auxiliary canals, it is expected to bring in $470-$550mn in annual income," Sadid stated.
The National Development Corporation of Afghanistan reported substantial progress in the canal’s construction. The water intake facility's construction has advanced by 50%, and excavation of the second phase has increased by 30%. The ongoing work on the second stage, which aims to reach the Andkhoi district in the Faryab region by year-end, is estimated to cost over AFN 20bn (approximately $283mn).
Economic expert Shakir Yaqubi noted that while the project's full impact might not be immediately visible, proper management could lead to significant economic benefits for Afghanistan.
"The Qosh Tepa Canal project is a long-term initiative. Its effects may not be immediately apparent, but with appropriate management methods, it can substantially impact Afghanistan's economy," Yaqubi emphasized.
The Qosh Tepa canal project, one of the major Amu Darya water management initiatives in northern Afghanistan, has raised concerns among neighboring Central Asian countries. The economist forecasts potential regional conflicts if the canal is completed, as it diverts Amu Darya water towards the Uzbekistan border. Afghanistan's reliance on electricity imports from Uzbekistan adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
Uzbekistan is already facing water shortages due to climate change, with predictions indicating a 15% loss in water supply. The canal could exacerbate this issue, potentially leading to a 25% total reduction in Uzbekistan's water supply.
In response, Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev warned that the canal's construction by the Taliban would alter Central Asia's water regime and balance. However, the Taliban have assured that Uzbekistan will not be adversely affected by the Qosh Tepa Canal.
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