Uzbek Athlete Conquers Aral Sea Bottom in Marathon Challenge
Uzbek Athlete Runs Aral Eco Marathon to Raise Awareness of Environmental Issues
Andrey Kulikov, a renowned athlete and organizer of mass races from Uzbekistan, recently completed the Aral Eco Marathon with a distance of over 42 kilometers. This marathon took place along the bottom of the Aral Sea and was dedicated to World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. The Uzbek Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change announced this achievement on their Telegram channel on June 17.
The primary objective of this race was to bring attention to the environmental issues plaguing the Aral Sea region and inspire individuals to take proactive steps in saving the planet. By running on the dried bottom of the Aral Sea, Kulikov aimed to experience firsthand the ecological catastrophe caused by desertification in the region.
The entire race was broadcast live on the ministry’s YouTube channel, allowing viewers from around the world to witness the incredible feat and learn more about the environmental challenges faced by the Aral Sea region.
The Aral Sea, once the fourth-largest lake in the world, has experienced a tenfold reduction in water volume since 1960. This ecological devastation has had severe consequences for local communities that relied on the lake for fishing. In addition to the loss of livelihoods, the region is prone to frequent sand and dust storms, causing harm to humans and livestock.
The Aral Sea is divided into two parts: the large Aral, situated in Uzbekistan, and the small Aral, located in Kazakhstan. The Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers, which flow across multiple countries such as Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, used to replenish the Aral Sea. However, due to various factors, including irrigation for agriculture and climate change, the rivers no longer reach the sea, leading to its ongoing depletion.
In May, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) organized an expedition to the dried bottom of the Aral Sea. The aim was to draw attention to the Aral Sea disaster and encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing among organizations working in the region.
Despite the ecological challenges, there have been some positive developments. Thanks to joint efforts, the water level in the Aral Sea has increased by nearly 1.5 billion cubic meters since the beginning of this year. This rise in water levels, reaching 95 centimeters, is a significant accomplishment after many years of decline.
Andrey Kulikov’s inspiring run through the Aral Eco Marathon contributes to the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about environmental issues in the region. By highlighting the consequences of desertification and the importance of sustainable practices, individuals and organizations can work together to preserve natural resources and protect the planet for future generations.
