Challenges in Achieving 100% Drinking Water Supply for the Population
Uzbekistan Faces Challenges in Achieving Full Access to Drinking Water
Despite ongoing efforts to increase access to drinking water for the population of Uzbekistan, achieving universal coverage remains a challenging goal. According to Uzsuvtaminot, a representative organization working on water supply projects in the country, reaching 100% coverage is simply not feasible. However, plans are in place to enhance coverage to 95% by the year 2035.
During a recent press conference held at the Agency of Information and Mass Communications, Uzsuvtaminot leadership reaffirmed that full access to drinking water is still out of reach. Despite implementing numerous projects over the years and developing a multi-billion-dollar plan to address water shortages in underserved areas, the organization acknowledges that there are remote and mountainous regions where extending water networks is technically and economically unviable.
Khurshid Rakhmatullaev, Deputy Chairman of Uzsuvtaminot, explained that the organization is working on a long-term strategy to achieve 95% centralized water supply nationwide by 2035. For the remaining 5% of areas where extending water networks is not possible, alternative solutions such as water delivery by tankers or localized water supply systems will be implemented.
Rakhmatullaev also mentioned that Uzsuvtaminot is collaborating with foreign partners on projects worth billions of dollars to improve water supply infrastructure in Uzbekistan. However, he highlighted several challenges that impact the completion, quality, and efficiency of water supply projects, including technological constraints, strict environmental standards, and the complexity of securing favorable loan agreements.
Despite these challenges, the government of Uzbekistan is actively working to address water supply issues in various neighborhoods. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, Jamshid Kuchkarov, recently announced plans to resolve water supply issues in over 850 neighborhoods by allocating significant funds to the effort.
Overall, while full access to drinking water may not be attainable in the near future, Uzbekistan is making strides towards improving water supply infrastructure and increasing coverage for its population. With ongoing efforts and collaborations with international partners, the country is working towards ensuring a more sustainable and reliable water supply system for its citizens.
