Ecologically Oriented Regional Development in the Aral Sea Region - Development of Geological and Hydrogeological Data
The problem:
The Aral Sea region, particularly the Chimbay district in Karakalpakstan, has been grappling with severe environmental challenges that have significantly impacted the socio-economic development of the area. The desiccation of the Aral Sea has led to ecological degradation, affecting water availability, soil quality, and agricultural productivity. In the face of these challenges, there is a growing demand for construction materials and freshwater resources to support the expanding urban settlements and the development of industrial and civil infrastructure. However, the region lacks a comprehensive and accessible database that documents the geological and hydrogeological characteristics of non-metallic solid mineral deposits and groundwater resources. The absence of this critical information hinders effective resource management and planning, leading to inefficient use of natural resources and exacerbating the region's environmental and economic vulnerabilities. Moreover, the existing data is scattered across various reports and documents, making it difficult for stakeholders to access, analyze, and utilize the information for informed decision-making. This situation has created a pressing need for a systematic approach to collect, process, and digitize geological and hydrogeological data to support sustainable development in the Chimbay district.
The solution:
InfoCapital Group LLC (ICG) addressed the critical need for a comprehensive geological and hydrogeological database in the Chimbay district. The project aimed to systematically collect, process, and digitize existing geological and hydrogeological data related to non-metallic solid mineral deposits and near-river lenses of fresh and slightly saline groundwater. ICG began by conducting thorough surveys of existing water wells and mineral deposits, performing chemical analyses of water samples to assess groundwater salinity and other key parameters. The team meticulously gathered and synthesized data from a wide range of sources, including reports from Goskomgeologiya, which had conducted geological exploration in the region for over 60 years. This information was then digitized and organized into a comprehensive spatial database that included geographic coordinates, location maps, and detailed descriptions of the geological and hydrogeological conditions of the region. The database was designed to be user-friendly, allowing stakeholders such as local authorities, investors, and planners to easily access and utilize the information for resource management and development planning. In addition to the digital database, ICG produced a report and a brochure that summarized the key findings and provided recommendations for the rational use of mineral and groundwater resources in the Chimbay district. These resources included maps with symbols, photos, and textual descriptions, offering a clear and concise overview of the region's geological and hydrogeological characteristics. Through this project, ICG played a pivotal role in equipping stakeholders with the tools and knowledge needed to support sustainable development and resource management in the ecologically vulnerable Chimbay district.
Start date:
06/2021
Services:
Client:
German Development Cooperation (GIZ)
