Reconstruction nears completion for Kokaral dam in Aral Sea
The project aimed to preserve the Kokaral dam and restore the Syrdarya river delta is nearing completion, official spokesperson of the Kazakh Water Resources Ministry Moldir Abdualiyeva said, Kazinform News Agency correspondent reports.
The Ministry plans to complete the reconstruction of the Kokaral dam, splitting off the North Aral Sea from the South (Large) Aral Sea, by the yearend. This will allow us to save the North Aral Sea, reduce water salinity as well as improve the environmental situation in the region, said Abdualiyeva during a press conference at the Central Communication Service.
She went on to add that the Ministry jointly with the World Bank came up with the second stage, which consists of 39 projects.
Its implementation will ensure employment of 2,000 people, contribute to agriculture and fishing, create additional jobs and improve the economic and social situation in the region, added Abdualiyeva.
According to the speaker, 1.6 billion cubic meters of water will be sent to the North Aral Sea before the end of March.
It’s worth noting that under the first stage of the project aimed to preserve the North Aral Sea, the water level rose by 42%.
As earlier reported, Kazakhstan plans to build three channels to divert floodwaters of the Yessil River to Aral Sea.
