Uzbekistan to allocate UZS 2.2 trillion to improve Karakalpakstan’s water supply

The Government of Uzbekistan has announced a massive investment of UZS 2.2 trillion aimed at the comprehensive development of centralized drinking water supply systems across the Republic of Karakalpakstan. This initiative was formalized in a presidential decree signed on February 21, titled "On the approval of programs for the socio-economic development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan in 2026 and subsequent years."

The project will be financed through a combination of international loans, state and local budgets, and private contributions. The funding breakdown for the 2026–2030 period is as follows:

International financial institutions – UZS 1.8 trillion
Republic budget – UZS 299.1 billion
Water supply organizations and sponsorships – UZS 22.9 billion
Local budget and additional sources – UZS 21.4 billion

The primary goal of this investment is to increase the coverage of centralized drinking water in Karakalpakstan to 83.5% by the year 2030.

To achieve these targets, the government has planned an extensive construction and modernization program. The scope of work includes laying 1,719 kilometers of new water networks, digging 56 new wells and installing desalination equipment and constructing 36 dedicated water facilities.

In addition to the national program, a separate agreement between the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been secured. Starting in 2027, $200 million will be allocated toward specific regional projects:

Amudarya district: Construction of 107.1 km of water networks across six neighborhoods, along with the reconstruction of a pumping station and a local water treatment plant.
Takhiatosh district: Laying 89.9 km of water networks and the construction or reconstruction of three water distribution facilities.
Ellikqala and Beruniy districts: Installation of 35.7 km of centralized sewage systems and several wastewater treatment plants in each district center.

The broad plan for these improvements was initially highlighted by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during a meeting on February 20, where he emphasized the need to mobilize all available resources to ensure the region's sustainable development and improve the quality of life for its residents.