Uzbekistan Strengthens Water Management Energy Efficiency and International Cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 15 December, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev received a report on ongoing initiatives in the water management sector aimed at improving energy efficiency, developing scientific capacity, and strengthening international cooperation.

The report outlined plans to replace outdated and energy-intensive pumping units with modern, energy-efficient systems.

In Karakalpakstan, where 274 pumping stations irrigate over 185,000 hectares, more than half of the pumps were manufactured before 1979 and consume two to three times more electricity than contemporary installations. Experience in the Kegeyli district demonstrated that replacing a single unit halved energy consumption.

A phased modernization of 276 pumps is planned, expected to save 25 billion soms annually in electricity, with a payback period of 14 months. Special attention is being given to supporting domestic manufacturers.

The report also highlighted the achievements of the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation, which educates 8,682 students, employs 571 faculty members, and boasts a scientific potential level of 73.5%. The university ranked 501st in the THE World University Rankings 2026, 2nd among Central Asian and Caucasus countries, and 1st in Uzbekistan, while advancing to 469th place in the QS World University Rankings 2026.

The institute has established a modern IT center with 200 seats, a digital library, a registrar’s office, and has engaged graduates from the world’s top-300 universities and foreign professors. Plans include creating a national digital platform for climate change analysis, building space observation stations, and developing infrastructure for satellite data reception.

Special emphasis is placed on the international master’s program “Water Diplomacy,” with goals to secure international recognition and position the university among the world’s top-300 institutions.

Regarding international cooperation, the report noted the first Central Asian conference on drinking water supply and wastewater services held in Tashkent, as well as a conference on the implementation of the Water Code.

In March 2026, Tashkent International Water Week is scheduled, providing a platform for dialogue on the rational use of water resources and the introduction of green technologies. Preparations are also underway for an international forum on water-saving technologies in the Aral Sea region.