Innovative approach to water scarcity: Ice Stupa technology introduced in Kashkadarya

An innovative water harvesting initiative based on artificial glacier (Ice Stupa) technology is being implemented in Sarchashma mahalla of Shahrisabz district, Kashkadarya region. The technology allows the use of existing water sources during the cold season, storing water in the form of ice and gradually melting it in spring and summer for irrigation and household purposes.

The progress of this pilot project was reviewed by Obidjon Kudratov, First Deputy Chairperson of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, Sherzod Umarov, Deputy Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Uzbekistan, as well as representatives of the khokimiyats of Kashkadarya region and Shakhrisabz district.

“In the context of climate change, the protection and effective management of water resources is one of the priority areas of state policy. The artificial glacier experience being introduced in Kashkadarya region represents an innovative and promising approach aimed at reducing water scarcity in foothill areas and creates opportunities for wider implementation of this practice in other regions of the country,” said Obidjon Kudratov.

During the visit, participants were provided with detailed information on the operating principles of the Ice Stupa technology, the mechanisms of water collection and off-season use, as well as the practical application of this approach under conditions of water scarcity.

This activity is being implemented within the framework of the project “Food Systems Land Use and Restoration Impact Programme in Uzbekistan” (FOLUR–Uzbekistan), carried out in cooperation with the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, with financial support from the Global Environment Facility.

“The artificial glacier technology is one of the practical and effective solutions for climate change adaptation in conditions of limited water resources. This approach enables seasonal water management, supports agricultural production and strengthens sustainable livelihoods of the local population,” emphasized Sherzod Umarov.

Prior to construction, the issue of site selection was thoroughly studied. The cold climatic conditions of the area, consistently low winter temperatures, proximity to water sources, actual water needs of residents and farmers, the legal status of the land plot and the need to avoid damage to existing infrastructure were taken into account.

During construction, issues related to identifying the most favorable microclimate, supplying water uphill through natural pressure, proper pipeline placement and ensuring technical safety were addressed step by step. Sector specialists and local partners were involved in the process.

As a result, four Ice Stupa structures were constructed in Sarchashma mahalla. Each artificial ice structure is capable of accumulating on average up to 450 cubic metres of ice during the winter season and ensuring approximately 250 cubic metres of usable water in the spring–summer period. This water is intended for early spring irrigation, orchards and household plots, as well as certain agricultural needs.

The Ice Stupa technology requires no energy input, is environmentally safe and adaptable to local conditions. Although currently implemented on a limited scale, its practical significance in terms of efficient use of natural resources under water scarcity conditions is high.

In the future, opportunities are being considered to introduce this experience in other foothill and water-scarce regions of Uzbekistan. This approach constitutes part of practical measures aimed at climate change adaptation, strengthening water security and ensuring agricultural sustainability.