From July 25 to August 1, a regional scientific expedition to the Hydrographic Party (HGP) Glacier in the Zeravshan Basin of the Republic of Tajikistan took place within the framework of the “Green Central Asia, Phase II” program.
The expedition aimed to comprehensively study current glaciological and hydrological processes under the increasing impact of climate change.
The research brought together 21 participants from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan — leading hydrologists, glaciologists, meteorologists, and scientific staff from specialized organizations. The expedition exemplified regional cooperation and the exchange of practical methodologies.
A special highlight of the event was the participation of two women experts from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Their contribution to field measurements and data analysis played a significant role in the scientific work of the expedition, emphasizing the growing importance of gender equality in science and strengthening the role of women as active contributors to regional research on climatology and glaciology.
During the fieldwork, the team carried out key measurements to assess the current state of the glacier system, including snow and ice mass balance, glacier boundary mapping using GPS technologies, drilling of control boreholes, and monitoring of temperature, humidity, and meltwater runoff. The collected data will provide an objective assessment of glacier degradation and the impact of climate factors on the water resources of the upper Zeravshan Basin.
To determine the HGP Glacier’s mass balance, experts applied a unified regional approach, including the installation of ablation and accumulation stakes, as well as seasonal and annual measurements. This approach makes it possible to identify common glacier degradation trends and provide a scientifically sound assessment of their contribution to river runoff in the region.
The scientific significance of the expedition lies in the creation of a unique dataset required for calibrating hydrological models and developing effective adaptation strategies for water resources management.
As Samarbek Toytukov, Leading Specialist of the Department of Avalanche Safety of the Glaciology and Avalanche Safety Division of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic, noted:
“The glaciers of Central Asia are not just resources; they are sources of water, life, and prosperity for our people. Joint research and knowledge sharing among the region’s countries are key to preserving our common heritage, strengthening unity, and ensuring the well-being of future generations.”
