The administration of the Zarafshan National Nature Park confirmed that the Chegara Canal, which for many years was a water source for wild animals, has stopped having a constant flow of water.
A joint study is planned with the participation of water resource management specialists and hydrologists to determine the causes of this problem. This statement followed the publication by park researcher E. B. Kholmanov of an article titled 'Drought and Arbitrary Actions Threaten the National Park' on the portal EKOLOG.UZ and on social networks.
According to observations by park staff, the volume of water in the canal, which runs along the border of the protected area, began to noticeably decrease in 2022. The complete cessation of the constant water flow occurred in 2023.
Previously, the canal provided water for local fauna, including the Bukhara deer and the Zarafshan pheasant. The park administration expressed solidarity with the author's concerns regarding ecological changes.
Nevertheless, the exact reasons for the disappearance of the water flow have not yet been established. Possible factors mentioned include changes in the hydrological regime of the Zarafshan River and the influence of economic activity. Further research is necessary to confirm these assumptions.
The park administration intends to propose a joint investigation involving specialists in water resource management, hydrologists, and representatives of relevant authorities. Based on the results obtained, proposals will be developed on possible methods to restore water supply to the Chegara Canal and preserve the national park's ecosystem.
