Lake Balkhash is threatened by pollution, climate change, and overuse, leading to declining fish populations and water levels. Despite temporary relief from flooding, ongoing issues primarily stem from reduced flow from the Ili River in China. Industrial pollution exacerbates the situation, impacting local health and ecological integrity. Urgent action is needed to address water-sharing agreements and pollution controls.
Lake Balkhash, often referred to as the “pearl of Kazakhstan” due to its stunning turquoise waters, is facing severe threats that could jeopardize its existence. This unique body of water, which features both saltwater and freshwater, has become increasingly endangered due to pollution, climate change, and excessive usage. Fisherman Alexei Grebennikov lamented the diminishing fish population and the lake’s deteriorating condition, stating, “There are fewer and fewer fish. It’s catastrophic; the lake is silting up.”
In the industrial town of Balkhash, a scientific study by Olga Sharipova noted that the lake serves as the largest fishery in Kazakhstan, but declining water levels hinder fish reproduction. Currently, the water level is perilously close to a critical threshold that could lead to disaster. Although there was a temporary boost in water levels due to floods this spring, the long-term decline persists.
The reduction in water levels in Lake Balkhash has been attributed to decreased flow from the Ili River, which originates in China. Since 2019, this decline has been evident, reflecting similar distress in other Central Asian lakes, notably the Aral Sea and Lake Issyk-Kul. Concerns of climate change and human activities, including agricultural expansion in China, exacerbate these issues.
The economic implications of the lake’s deterioration are significant, especially given its role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. A study by Oxford University indicated that continued agricultural water use in China could strain future supplies for the lake. Negotiations for an agreement regarding transborder water sharing with China remain critical for ensuring the lake’s preservation.
Pollution is another major concern, with reports of contamination from heavy metals and pesticides attributed to industrial activities in Balkhash. The town, which is built around the Kazakhmys copper mining operation, faces health issues, including notably high lung cancer rates. Kazakhmys denies being the lake’s primary polluter and has pledged to improve its environmental practices. Meanwhile, waste continues to be discharged into surrounding waters, compounding the ecological crisis.
The situation surrounding Lake Balkhash underscores a complex interplay of environmental degradation, industrial pollution, and geopolitical challenges. As pressures from climate change and overconsumption intensify, proactive measures are necessary to ensure the lake’s survival and the health of the surrounding communities. Addressing water management agreements with China and implementing stricter environmental regulations are urgent steps to mitigate the current threats facing this vital ecosystem.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
