This Sea Is Coming Back to Life!

Water levels in Kazakhstan’s North Aral Sea have increased by 42 per cent thanks to an ambitious restoration project, offering hope for a once-devastated ecosystem.

“These figures are the result of systematic work over the past two years. We [Kazakhstan] have reached a mutual understanding with neighboring countries on the conservation and fair distribution of water resources in transboundary rivers,” says the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nurzhan Nurzhigitov.

The project aims to improve the region’s ecology, boost fisheries and tourism, and enhance the quality of life for local communities. It began in response to the catastrophic shrinkage of the sea, largely caused by extensive water diversion for agricultural purposes. Since the restoration project’s start, the water volume in the sea has increased by 27 billion cubic meters. Kazakhstan’s efforts are a shining example of how reversing environmental degradation is possible. Now, the sea is expected to be managed more ecologically without hampering local economic opportunities.