Tashtanov noted that out of 86 thousand hectares allocated for winter crops, a significant portion was sown on rainfed (non-irrigated) lands. At the same time, the yield meets the expected indicators.
“During the growing season, water that is usually not consumed is used. In spring, when all plants begin to grow and need irrigation, the load on water resources sharply increases. However, in the case of winter crops, the main water needs have already been met in advance, which helps to reduce the peak load on the irrigation system,” he explained.
Speaking about plans for the coming years, Tashtanov specified that 106 new facilities will be built. He also added that, by the president's directive, necessary funds are being allocated for the accumulation and preservation of water resources, and work has already begun.
According to Tashtanov, most of the existing irrigation systems, as well as reservoirs operating on a daily and decadal basis, were built in the 1950s and 60s. In this regard, work is being carried out in three key areas.
The first area is the construction of new facilities to ensure water supply for agricultural crops, settlements, and social facilities.
The second area is the rehabilitation and restoration of existing reservoirs. Many of them have silted over time and cannot accumulate water to design capacities. In 2025, it is planned to build and reconstruct 12 facilities. As he emphasized, the volume and quality of reconstruction are actually comparable to new construction.
Tashtanov also noted that old reservoirs built during the Soviet era with earthen bases are now losing a significant amount of water due to filtration into the ground. Currently, modern technologies are being applied, such as covering the inner surface with a special membrane, which helps to reduce losses and increase the efficiency of water accumulation.
