1.1.2.WATER USE In 1994, total annual water withdrawal was estimated at 11.87km3, of which over 92 per cent was for irrigation purposes. About 2.26km3 was groundwater, an estimated 0.35km3 re-used collectordrainage water and wastewater for irrigation, and the remainder was surface water. In 1995, total water demand for all sectors was estimated at 12.955km3.

1.2.WATER QUALITY, ECOSYSTEMS AND HUMAN HEALTH Major environmental problems in Tajikistan include inadequate sanitation facilities, increasing levels of soil salinity, industrial pollution and excessive pesticides. The environmental problems in Tajikistan are the result of its climate and natural conditions (steep slopes) and the structure of the national economy. The irrigated area is subject to substantial erosion, land slides, sagging and deformation. The area affected is estimated to be about 450 km2. Irrigation development in the foothill zone, especially in the more stony areas, induces increasing groundwater recharge, intensifying water logging and salinization of the lower areas, and increasing the sediment-loaded drainage water runoff. Collector-drainage water is the principal water polluter (common mineralization, pesticides and some other waste ingredients). Environmental pollution is also increasing as a consequence of industrial production.

(Water Risk Filter)