In line with the initiatives of the Founder of Peace and National Unity - Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, concerning the “Preservation of Glaciers and the Cryosphere, Particularly in High-Mountain Regions,” the Agency for Hydrometeorology of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan continues its activities in monitoring and studying the state of the cryosphere.
In this regard, on 6 August 2026, the Agency, in accordance with Point 4.3 of the State Programme for the Study and Protection of Glaciers of Tajikistan for 2010–2030, conducted aerial visual observations in the Muchob (Muksu) River Basin, the Surkhob River Basin, and on Tajikistan Glacier (Fedchenko Glacier). The observations aimed to analyze and assess the condition of snow resources, monitor runoff and water-resource formation, glaciers and glacial lakes, as well as forecast the occurrence of hazardous natural phenomena.
The observations were attended by Mr. Sheralizoda Bahodur Ahmadjon, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan; Mr. Qurbonzoda Abdullo Habibullo, Director of the Agency for Hydrometeorology; relevant specialists of the Agency, as well as representatives of the mass media.
The primary objective of the observations was to assess the condition of snow and ice resources, identify ongoing changes in glaciers and glacial lakes, and collect reliable data to improve the monitoring system and assess potential glacier-related risks.
The results of the aerial visual observations showed that the glaciers surveyed are experiencing different dynamic conditions. Processes of glacier retreat and melting, reductions in snow and ice reserves, shrinking glacier tongues, and the formation of glacial lakes continue to be observed.
Among the glaciers surveyed, Dekhdal and Kyzylkul Glaciers demonstrate a high degree of dynamic activity and a potential for the development of hazardous processes. At Said Nafisi (Baralmos) Glacier, a reduction in snow reserves and the presence of glacial lakes were observed. In the Tajikistan Glacier (Fedchenko Glacier) system, the degradation of smaller glaciers, retreat of its tributary branches, reduction of the glacier tongue, changes in the glacier’s volume and area, as well as the formation of glacial lakes were recorded.
Given the strategic and hydrological importance of glaciers for ensuring the country’s water resources, as well as the potential risks posed by glacier-related debris flows and glacial lake outburst floods, the continuation of regular and comprehensive monitoring is of particular importance.
The Agency for Hydrometeorology, using its available capacities and in cooperation with relevant stakeholders, will continue to monitor snow resources, glaciers, and glacial lakes, while taking the necessary measures to strengthen scientific research on the cryosphere, improve forecasting of changes in water resources, and reduce the risks of natural disasters associated with glaciers.
19.08.2026