National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The delegation examined the results of works carried out under the project to remediate sites of former uranium deposits, implemented with the support of the EBRD.

Reclamation in Yangiyabad began in March 2023 and was completed in August of this year. Prior to the start of works, consultations were held with local residents and relevant agencies.

As Vadim Korolev, Head of the project management team for the reclamation of former uranium mines, reported, the project included a geodetic survey, construction of access roads, demolition of old structures, creation of a disposal site for contaminated waste, installation of drainage and infiltration systems for mine water, reinforcement of shorelines and installation of pipes for water diversion. Special attention was paid to compliance with occupational, technical and radiation safety standards, as well as to taking into account the proposals of Yangiyabad residents.

During the visit, Minister Aziz Abdukhakimov noted that after completion of reclamation works particular attention should be given to landscaping the area to develop ecotourism and create recreational opportunities for the population. Planned measures include planting shrubs and other greenery, laying pedestrian paths, cleaning and improving adjacent plots, and installing online video cameras to record possible environmental violations and ensure transparency of the processes. These measures, he said, will not only preserve the results of the remediation but also transform the Yangiyabad site into a safe, well-managed and attractive place for residents and visitors.

Director of the Agency for Waste Management and Circular Economy Sharifbek Khasanov noted that constant monitoring of the ongoing measures has been established in this area. Territories with low radiation levels are being returned to nature and awareness-raising and educational activities involving the public and youth are currently being carried out on these sites.

For reference: the environmental rehabilitation project is being implemented under a grant agreement between the EBRD and Uzbekistan in the amount of €9 million. The funds were allocated to remediate sites in Yangiyabad (Tashkent region) and Chorkesar-2 (Namangan region). Reclamation works at Chorkesar-2 were completed in August 2024, where a full range of measures to eliminate the consequences of uranium mining was carried out.

The remediation of former uranium mines is aimed at eliminating ionizing radiation hazards, creating a safe ecological environment, and improving public health.