Tashtanov noted that out of 86 thousand hectares of winter crops, a significant portion was sown on non-irrigated (rainfed) lands, and the yield corresponds to expected indicators.
He explained that during the growing season, water is used that is typically not applied, and in spring, when all plants begin to grow actively and need irrigation, the demand on water resources sharply increases. However, for winter crops, the water needs were met in advance, which helps to reduce the peak load on the irrigation system.
Speaking about upcoming plans, Tashtanov emphasized that necessary financial resources are being allocated for the construction of 106 new facilities as per the president's directive, and work has already begun.
According to him, most of the existing irrigation systems and reservoirs were built back in the 1950s and 60s, which necessitates work in three main areas.
The first area involves the construction of new facilities to ensure water supply for agricultural crops, populated areas, and social institutions.
The second 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, with the reconstruction being comparable to new construction in terms of volume and quality.
Tashtanov also added that old reservoirs created during the Soviet period with earthen bases lose a significant amount of water due to filtration into the soil. Currently, modern technologies are being used: the inner surfaces of the reservoirs are covered with a special membrane, which helps reduce losses and increase the efficiency of water accumulation.
