A high-level regional workshop titled “Sustainable and Efficient Water Use in the Context of Small Rivers of Central Asia: Challenges, Solutions, Experience Sharing, and Prospects” took place on June 16 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, drawing together nearly 35 water management professionals and experts from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and beyond. The event was organized by Hydro4U project partner International Water Management Institute (IWMI) as part of its broader engagement in regional water governance and sustainable development.

Focusing on small river systems—an often-overlooked but critical component of Central Asia’s hydrological network—the workshop provided a timely platform to address water security in relation to food production, energy access, and ecosystem sustainability.

Key Outcomes and Highlights
Participants engaged in vibrant discussions and technical exchanges aimed at addressing pressing challenges and identifying practical, sustainable solutions. Major highlights of the workshop included:

• Assessment of current water management challenges in transboundary small rivers;

• Demonstrations of innovative water-saving technologies and data tools to support decision-making;

• Experience sharing from regional initiatives such as the Global Partnership for Shared Waters, Hydro4U, WE-ACT, ISTC, and CGIAR’s Policy Innovations Program;

• Enhanced dialogue on cross-border collaboration at the sub-basin level, a critical scale for implementing integrated water resource management (IWRM);

• A collaborative review of indicators for IWMI’s draft Agreement Template, developed under the Hydro4U project to support hydropower and water-sharing agreements.

The workshop not only facilitated meaningful exchanges between countries but also underscored the importance of cooperative, science-based approaches to managing shared water resources in the face of climate variability and growing demand.

Looking Ahead

Organizers and participants reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing collaboration and to strengthening the technical and institutional foundations needed for water security in Central Asia. The outcomes of this workshop are expected to feed directly into the implementation of regional projects and contribute to policy development at both national and basin levels.

As small rivers play an increasingly strategic role in local livelihoods and environmental health, the insights and cooperation fostered through this event mark a step forward toward more resilient and sustainable water systems in the region.

Author and Picture credits: Bunyod Holmatov, IWMI

From June 17–19, the Hydro4U project is bringing together a dynamic collaboration of institutions and experts for a hands-on field training in the Shakhimardan exclave of Uzbekistan. Led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the National Research University “Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers Institute,” this training is a vital step toward empowering the next generation of water professionals in Central Asia.

Hosted in partnership with the Scientific Research Institute of Irrigation and Water Problems (SRIIWP) and the Water Management Organization of Fergana Region (BUIS), the training will focus on enhancing technical skills for accurately measuring the discharge of small rivers, using both modern technologies and time-tested traditional methods. The Koksu River, a highland stream typical of the region, provides the perfect setting for this practical, immersive learning experience.

Why It Matters

Effective water management starts with good data. Understanding how much water is flowing through rivers and streams is critical to managing irrigation, supporting ecosystems, and planning for the future. This training aims to equip young professionals, doctoral students, and local specialists with the tools and knowledge needed to measure water flow accurately—even in challenging field conditions.

Training Objectives

The three-day training program is designed to:

• Enhance technical capacity in hydrometry and streamflow monitoring;
• Introduce a variety of measurement techniques suited for diverse environments;
• Promote innovative, data-driven approaches to managing water resources sustainably.

Methods and Tools in Focus

Participants will gain hands-on experience with three core methods of discharge measurement:

• Salt Dilution Method
  Ideal for shallow, turbulent streams like the Koksu and Aqsu, this method will be led by Dr. Shavkat Kenjabaev (IWMI). It’s especially suited to remote, mountainous environments where conventional instruments are difficult to deploy.

• Classical Flowmeter Technique (GR-21M)
  A staple of hydrological fieldwork, the GR-21M flowmeter method for measuring water velocity will be taught by Mr. Isakdjon Ibragimov (SRIIWP). This technique provides reliable baseline data and is essential for all hydrometrists.

• Modern Electromagnetic Velocimeter (MGG/KL-DCB)
  For those interested in the cutting edge, the MGG/KL-DCB device offers real-time, high-precision measurements of velocity and flow depth. This session will be led by a Hydromet specialist from BUIS Fergana.

A Step Toward Smarter Water Management

By blending traditional knowledge with modern technology, this training reflects Hydro4U’s commitment to building resilient, locally adapted solutions for water resource management. It’s not just about teaching methods—it’s about empowering communities and professionals to make informed decisions that support both people and ecosystems.

Stay tuned for updates and insights from the field!

Author and Picture credits: IWMI

Power in a box for remote areas: Francis Container Solution.

In the evolving world of renewable energy, small hydropower is gaining recognition as a crucial technology for decentralized, sustainable electricity generation, especially in remote or rural areas. Hydropower projects often face major obstacles: high civil engineering costs, long project timelines, and complex permitting processes.

To address these challenges, Global Hydro has developed the Francis Turbine in a Container – an innovative, fully integrated containerized hydropower solution. This pre-assembled small hydropower plant is compact, mobile, and minimizes the need for large-scale civil works, enabling rapid deployment even in hard-to-reach locations.

As part of the EU-funded Hydro4U project, this system is currently being demonstrated in Central Asia, proving that sustainable energy access is possible anywhere water flows.

Read the full article by Global Hydro here.

Astana, Kazakhstan – On 1 June 2025, at EuroFest 2025, the European Union (EU) funded SECCA project unveiled the photo exhibition titled “The European Union – Central Asia: Faces of Sustainable Energy Development Cooperation”, as part of the EU–Kazakhstan Sustainable Energy Days.

This photo exhibition celebrates the human faces of sustainable energy cooperation between the EU and the Central Asian countries. It highlights individuals from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan – policymakers, engineers, students, researchers, educators, and others – who are driving the energy transition, advancing sustainable development, and taking actions – big or small – toward a greener and more resilient tomorrow for their countries and for generations to come.

Each portrait tells a real-life story: a journey of dedication, aspiration and inner strength. Together, they demonstrate that cooperation between the EU and Central Asia is not just about policies or technologies – it’s about people.

The exhibition will also be displayed later this year in other capital cities across the region as part of the Sustainable Energy Days in each country.

This article was written by SECCA and was originally published on June 3 2025 in English and Russian.

5th May 2025

As climate challenges and outdated infrastructure hinder hydropower development in Central Asia, the EU-funded Hydro4U project demonstrates innovative, sustainable small hydropower technologies tailored for remote regions.

Central Asia holds vast untapped potential for hydropower, particularly in upstream regions. However, the region faces serious challenges stemming from aging infrastructure, limited investment in new developments, and the growing impact of climate change and water scarcity. The Hydro4U project, funded by the European Union, directly addresses these issues by designing innovative, climate-resilient small hydropower (SHP) technologies that are both cost-effective and simple to implement, especially in remote areas. These technologies are developed to align with EU quality and environmental standards.

On Wednesday, 30th April 2025, a delegation of 13 Ambassadors and representatives from the embassies of European Union Member States accredited in Uzbekistan participated in a site visit tour that included Fergana Valley, where the Hydro4U demonstration site in the Shakimardan Enclave, Uzbekistan is also located. The site showcases the Francis Container Power Solution (FCPS), which was developed and manufactured by Austrian Global Hydro Energy and implemented in collaboration with the national utility Uzbekgidroenergo. The visit highlighted the project’s commitment to sustainable energy transition and regional cooperation.

Representatives from Hydro4U project partners, including the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers (TIIAME), participated in the visit. Hydro4U project coordinator Bertalan Alapfy from the Technical University of Munich (TUM), guided the delegation through the site, presenting key project milestones, technical challenges, and expected outcomes.

Current efforts within Hydro4U are concentrated on finalizing and commissioning the FCPS at Shakimardan and implementing the second demonstration, the At-Bashy Hydroshaft Power Solution in the Kyrgyz Republic. Looking ahead, Hydro4U partners will identify additional sites for replication and conduct three further feasibility studies, paving the way for broader deployment of sustainable SHP technologies across the region.

Hydro4U exemplifies how international cooperation, innovation, and environmental responsibility can drive the green energy transformation in water-stressed regions like Central Asia.

Reference to EU press-release: EU Ambassadors Visit Beneficiaries of EU-Funded Projects in Fergana and Shakhimardan | EEAS

A delegation of 13 Ambassadors and representatives from the embassies of European Union Member States accredited in Uzbekistan participated in an annual joint study trip, this year focused on the Fergana Valley.

On 29–30 April 2025 a delegation of 13 Ambassadors and representatives from the embassies of European Union Member States accredited in Uzbekistan participated in an annual joint study trip, this year focused on the Fergana Valley. The visit aimed to gain deeper insight into water management challenges and explore opportunities made possible by EU-funded initiatives.

Upon arrival in Fergana, the delegation met with the team behind the EU-funded Fergana Valley Water Resources Management Project[1], which works to modernize irrigation and drainage services across Fergana, Andijan, and Namangan regions. Ambassadors had the opportunity to visit local farms and engage with farmers who are direct beneficiaries of the project. The modernisation efforts have led to reduced water losses, improved agricultural yields, and the introduction of new varieties of fruits and vegetables. The visit also highlighted the impact of EU-supported Farmer Field Schools, where farmers have adopted innovative agricultural practices and cutting-edge techniques.

The delegation then traveled to the Shakhimardan exclave to visit the HYDROPOWER FOR YOU project[2], funded under the EU’s Horizon Europe programme. This initiative showcases the successful application of academic research to real-world solutions. A consortium of 13 universities and research institutions, led by the Technical University of Munich, developed and commissioned a small hydropower plant that now supplies clean and stable electricity to the local community. The project not only benefits residents with a reliable and sustainable energy source, but also facilitates the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise among European and local partners.

The visit to Shakhimardan offered a rare glimpse into life in an exclave, highlighting the day-to-day challenges faced by residents of the Fergana Valley. The EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan Toivo Klaar emphasized the significance of Uzbekistan’s efforts to deepen regional cooperation with its Central Asian neighbours. He reiterated the EU’s readiness to share its experience in regional collaboration and integrated border management.

—

[1] Fergana Valley Water Resources Management Project”: Project Implementation Unit (PIU), Center for Implementation of Foreign Investment Projects in the Water Sector under the Ministry of Water Resources. Contacts : FVWRMP-P-II CENTER piu.fwrmp@gmail.com ; EU Grant piu.eug.fvwrmp@gmail.com.

[2] “Hydro4U project” – https://hydro4u.eu/ , contact: Project Co-ordinator Mr Bertalan Alapfy bertalan.alapfy@tum.de , Technical University Munich.

This article was written by the Press and information team of the Delegation to UZBEKISTAN and was originally published on May 2 2025 under the following link: https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/uzbekistan/eu-ambassadors-visit-beneficiaries-eu-funded-projects-fergana-and-shakhimardan_en?s=233

Shakimardan was a busy place between the 24th of March and the 4th of April. Project partners from various research groups stayed in the exclave to conduct impact assessment studies of the vertical slot fish pass and downstream bypass. In addition, various stretches of the rivers Koksu, Aksu and Shakimardan were electro fished to get a better understanding of the fish density and population structure in the river basin, which will be compared when the hydropower is operational, resulting in a residual flow between the hydropower intake and the power house. The five research groups visiting the site were SJE (Germany), BOKU (Austria), TU-Dresden (Germany), TIIAME (Uzbekistan), IGF Jena (Germany) and EVINBO (Belgium).

During the stay, EVINBO focused on the impact assessment of the passability of the hydropower weirs. To do so, they installed antennas to detect fish tagged with passive integrated transponders (PIT), which is a kind of microchip. They installed three antennas in the vertical slot fish pass (one at the entrance, one in the middle and one at the outlet) and one antenna downstream of the weirs. This allows to quantify how many fish reach the weirs and what proportion effectively finds the fish pass and uses it. Finally, a fifth antenna on the downstream bypass next to the trash rack was installed to study the downstream passage. In parallel, a part of the EVINBO team was fishing together with scientists from BOKU and TIIAME to catch and tag as many fish as possible with PIT tags. As we already assumed, there were not that many fish in the River Koksu in March and also not in the River Shakimardan. Instead, the largest catches were done in the River Aksu, likely as fish were either coming from, or still going to, the upstream spawning grounds. Even more, during electrofishing, we found rearing habitat of juvenile snowtrout with fish ranging from less than half a centimetre to a few centimetres, suggesting that spawning likely started a few weeks or even months ago in winter for at least a part of the population. Consequently, the pieces of the puzzle about the snowtrout’s life cycle are coming together. In total, 206 fish were tagged: 160 snowtrouts and 46 loaches.

SJE’s involvement in the OptiPass research project with the partners TUD Dresden University of Technology and IGF Jena Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Fisheries Biology resulted in a collaboration between Hydro4U and the OptiPass consortium, which was searching for a field site to study fish responses to high spatial velocity gradients (SVG) in bypasses for downstream migration of fish. Due to the conditions, the Shakimardan site is ideally suited for the OptiPass field study. To exploit synergies between the two projects, the OptiPass team traveled together with the Hydro4U group and started the site works with the set up and commission of an infrared-camera system at the bypass adjacent to the plant-intake. Snowtrouts caught and tagged by EVINBO, BOKU and TIIAME were carefully placed near the bypass entrance to study if they pass downstream without strong delay and avoidance behavior. The resulting one-week video footage from the first study campaign will allow an analysis of the effects of hydraulic conditions on the downstream migration behaviour of snow trout. The results will be compared with the results from ethohydraulic experiments carried out earlier in the TUD laboratory to gain an understanding of general behavior patterns in bypass-typical flow conditions.

The preliminary assessment of fish behavior indicates that the initial design of the bypass was implemented with construction deficiencies preventing a fish passage without delays. A minor but obvious optimization is needed. These will be realized before the end of the Hydro4U project.

Author: Pieterjan Verhelst, EVINBO

Picture Credits: Hydro4U