Uzbekistan, JICA Review Soil Salinity Project in Aral Sea Region

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan has held discussions on the results of an innovative project implemented by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the SATREPS grant programme.

The project is being carried out in the 2022–2027 period and is aimed at combating soil salinity in the Aral Sea region, improving soil fertility, strengthening food security, and developing technologies for monitoring and controlling the use of water resources.

During the meeting, Japanese specialists presented preliminary results of the project in an online format.

It was reported that modern meteorological observation centres have been established in the Aral Sea region, and recommendations are being developed to improve soil fertility, ensure efficient use of water resources, and promote regenerative agriculture.

As part of the project, modern equipment and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) have been delivered to Uzbekistan for analysing soil salinity levels, monitoring moisture distribution and water quality, and processing geographic information system (GIS) data.

Following the discussions, an agreement was reached to develop practical recommendations for the Republic of Karakalpakstan and Kashkadarya region on agricultural practices under climate change conditions based on the scientific data obtained at the final stage of the project.

The parties also exchanged views on implementing scientific results into practice, expanding innovative approaches in the regions, and further developing cooperation.