Sustaining Tajik Farmers: The Lifeline of One River
The Syr Darya River in Tajikistan’s Sughd Region plays a crucial role in sustaining the agricultural livelihoods of local farmers. Flowing for 144 kilometers through Tajikistan, the river provides water for crops like cotton, rice, and fruit, as well as for two major hydropower stations in the region.
Journalist Petr Trotsenko recently explored the Syr Darya River and its impact on the lives of those who depend on it for their livelihoods. In the scorching heat of the Sughd region, farmers like Farrukh Zabitov are facing challenges due to rising water prices and falling cotton prices. Despite the difficulties, these farmers continue to work hard to make a living from the land.
Experts, like journalist Nehmatullo Mirsaidov, highlight the need for more efficient water usage, especially in countries like Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, where cotton production is predominant. Mirsaidov suggests shifting towards horticulture and implementing modern technologies like drip irrigation to address water shortages.
In addition to agriculture, the Syr Darya River also supports hydroelectric power plants like the Farhad and Kairakum HPPs. These plants play a vital role in providing electricity to the region and managing water resources.
As the region grapples with various challenges, including water scarcity and fluctuating crop prices, the people living along the Syr Darya River continue to rely on its waters for their survival. Through their resilience and determination, they navigate the complexities of agriculture and water management in Central Asia.
This river serves as a lifeline for many in the region, providing sustenance and livelihoods in a challenging environment.
