Kazakhstan's Turkistan Region is accelerating efforts to modernize its water infrastructure, with more than 143 kilometers of irrigation networks undergoing large-scale reconstruction to support farming and combat water loss.

During a working visit, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Nurzhan Nurzhigitov inspected key facilities and ongoing projects across several districts, highlighting the government’s push to strengthen water efficiency amid growing climate challenges, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

In the Ordabasy District, reconstruction of the 26.15-kilometer Naiman canal is nearing completion. The canal has been fully lined with concrete, and construction of 75 hydraulic structures is almost finished, with overall progress reaching 98%.

Meanwhile, in the Otyrar District, attention is focused on upgrading the Kyzyltu pumping station, a vital facility drawing water from the Arys River for irrigation. Plans are underway to install three new pumps to improve water delivery capacity.

In the Arys District, a major project is in progress to rebuild 143.4 kilometers of irrigation networks. Once completed, the system will provide reliable water supply to more than 8,200 hectares of farmland, significantly enhancing agricultural output.

Nurzhigitov stressed that modernizing irrigation systems is critical as climate change intensifies pressure on water resources. The upgrades are expected to reduce water losses, improve efficiency, and support sustainable farming practices across the region.

Kazakhstan is also advancing innovation in the sector, recently developing new irrigation technology that utilizes drainage water - a move that could further strengthen resilience in agriculture.