Uzbekistan / Work Begins At Two Sites On Tackling Soviet Uranium Mining Legacy

15/09/2023

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Remediation efforts have commenced at two Soviet uranium mining sites in Uzbekistan, bolstered by a generous €9m ($9.6m) grant. This funding will support crucial activities such as closing mine openings, demolishing derelict facilities used for uranium ore processing, and re-cultivating waste rock areas. The grant originates from the environmental remediation account for Central Asia, established through the initiative of the European Union and managed by the esteemed European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The first site undergoing remediation, Yangiabad, is located approximately 75 km east of Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent. It spans across a mountainous terrain near the town of Yangiabad and encompasses seven mines. This uranium mining site operated for nearly four decades and covers an extensive area of 50 square kilometers, containing approximately 2.6 million cubic meters of radioactive waste. Once the remediation process is complete, this region, known locally as the Uzbek Alps, will be transformed into an environmentally safe area, fostering the growth of livelihoods and tourism.

The second site, Charkesar-2 mine, is situated 140 km east of Tashkent and 60 km west of Namangan in the scenic Fergana Valley. This contaminated area, spanning approximately 25 hectares, includes five already remediated waste rock dumps and two abandoned mine shafts. The existing water diversion channels on the site are in a state of disrepair. The remediation work at Charkesar-2 will not only address the environmental concerns but also prevent the dispersal of toxic materials into the river system that serves the Fergana Valley, home to a population of over 15 million people.

With this recent allocation of funding, the environmental remediation account has now supported the remediation of five out of seven high-priority sites in Central Asia. In addition to the two sites in Uzbekistan, three sites in the Kyrgyz Republic have also received funding. These remediation efforts play a vital role in safeguarding the environment and the well-being of communities in the region, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for Central Asia.

The dedication and support of the European Union and the EBRD in addressing the uranium mining legacy in Uzbekistan exemplify the commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development. By remediating these sites, Uzbekistan takes significant strides towards protecting its natural resources, preserving the health of its citizens, and fostering a thriving and resilient economy. The positive impact of these remediation efforts will extend far beyond the borders of Uzbekistan, contributing to the overall well-being of Central Asia as a whole.