Reclamation of Former Uranium Mine in Yangiabad Completed
2025-08-08 14:00:00 / News
During the visit, the working group inspected the completed activities carried out under the project for the reclamation of uranium mining facilities in Yangiabad, implemented with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
Reclamation work at the site began in February 2024, following consultations with local residents and relevant organizations. To date, a geodetic survey of the reclaimed areas has been completed, 850 meters of access roads have been built, and all concrete and brick structures, as well as reinforced concrete constructions, have been dismantled. A dedicated landfill has been established for the disposal of contaminated concrete waste.
The site has also been equipped with a surface water drainage system, the mine shaft and adit (a horizontal or inclined tunnel leading to the surface) have been sealed, a trench has been dug for the infiltration of mine water, and the buried waste and washed ore have been covered. In addition, riverbanks along the site have been reinforced, damaged layers have been overlaid with a protective coating and 1,000 mm diameter polypropylene pipes have been installed to divert mine water.
It was noted that significant results were achieved in neutralizing the hazards posed by the former uranium mine, with strict compliance to occupational health and safety standards. As part of the project, a meeting was held with local residents to hear their opinions and proposals.
Background: A grant agreement worth €9 million was signed between the EBRD and Uzbekistan for the reclamation of former uranium mine sites in Yangiabad (Tashkent region) and Charkesar-2 (Namangan region). The project aims to eliminate radioactive contamination in these areas, transform them into safe zones, and improve public health. Reclamation works at the former Charkesar-2 uranium mine were completed in August 2024, with the full range of necessary measures implemented.