Emergency services mobilize massive repair effort in Andijan

On May 8, flooding was reported in Buloqboshi district, Andijan region, following damage to the Southern Fergana Canal embankment, which resulted in streets being submerged. The affected canal section has now been fully reinforced, and the flooding has been eliminated, according to the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

Officials confirmed that excess water flow caused erosion along 30 meters of the canal's right embankment, leading to water leakage. In response, a crisis management headquarters led by Deputy Prime Minister Ochilboy Ramatov was established to coordinate the restoration efforts.

Regional emergency services, in collaboration with lower-tier agencies, undertook engineering and protective measures to stabilize the damaged section of the canal. Restoration efforts included:

• 2250 cubic meters of gravel and 900 cubic meters of large stone reinforcements;
• Deployment of 135 heavy engineering vehicles and 223 specialized machines;
• Mobilization of 890 personnel for cleanup operations.

Floodwater was drained from affected homes, yards, and basements, while internal roads were cleared of mud and debris. Streets were reinforced with gravel, and waste was removed from residential properties, followed by disinfection procedures. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported.

Initially, the Ministry of Emergency Situations estimated flood damage at 100 homes, with water entering 30 households directly and affecting 70 yards. However, UzHydromet initially reported that 560 homes were impacted before later revising the number down to 100.

Reports also suggest that the flooding was caused by excessive water release linked to the construction of a hydroelectric station (HPP) on the canal. According to UzHydromet, water discharge reached 15 cubic meters per second, exceeding normal capacity.