On June 12, 2026, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, representatives of Tajikistan held talks with the leadership of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) regional office. The Bahri Tojik Reservoir Modernization Project took center stage, Avesta.tj reported.
Representing the Tajik side, Nematullo Hikmatullozoda, Assistant to the President for Economic Affairs, and Daler Juma, Minister of Energy and Water Resources, participated in the meeting. The Asian Development Bank was represented by Leia Gutierrez, Director of the Central and West Asia Department, and Asad Alim, Regional Coordinator for Cooperation and Integration.
The parties emphasized that the reservoir modernization is not only of national but also of significant regional significance for all of Central Asia, where issues of water distribution and sustainable management are directly linked to food and energy security in the region.
The "Efficient Management of Bahri Tojik Water Resources" project is considered an element of climate adaptation and transboundary water resilience. It includes strengthening protective dams to reduce flood risk, reconstructing pumping stations, modernizing irrigation and drainage infrastructure, and implementing a digital SCADA control system.
It is also noted that the upgraded infrastructure will improve the efficiency of water supply to agricultural lands, reduce water losses during dry periods, and increase energy generation potential. Given the increasing impact of climate change, this is seen as a key project for improving the sustainability of the water and energy balance in Central Asia.
According to the ADB, a preliminary feasibility study for the project has already been prepared with the bank's support, opening the way for further practical implementation of the initiative.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 12, 2026