SIC ICWC Expert takes part in the Central Asia Hydrology from Space (CAHYSPA) Workshop

From July 20 to 22, the Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan in Dushanbe hosted the Central Asia Hydrology from Space (CAHYSPA) workshop focusing on the use of remote sensing technologies for hydrological applications, climate change adaptation, and water management in Central Asia.

The event was organized with jointly by LEGOS/CNES (France), James Cook University (Australia), the Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, and EnviroVision Consulting LLC. It brought together representatives of research institutes, government agencies, and international experts to exchange on the application of satellite data and advanced technologies for water monitoring.

The Scientific Information Center of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (SIC ICWC) was represented by Gulnoza Khamdamova, chief expert.

The workshop addressed current approaches to the use of RS data for monitoring water bodies, assessing hydrological processes, observing glaciers, analyzing droughts and floods, and developing decision support systems for water management.

Particular attention was paid to integrating satellite observations with ground-based hydrometeorological measurements to improve the accuracy of water assessments, especially in areas with limited monitoring networks. Participants also discussed the calibration and validation of satellite data, application of advanced geospatial technologies, development of scientific information platforms, and capacity building for Central Asian specialists in the use of RS technology.

Gulnoza Khamdamova, Chief expert of SIC’s Regional Information-Analytical Center, delivered a presentation “Science in the service of Water Policy in Central Asia”. She presented SIC's experience in providing scientific and analytical support for decision-making on transboundary water management, highlighted the importance of integrating research, digital technologies, and data to strengthen cooperation among the scientific community, government agencies, and international organizations, and emphasized the role of research, digital innovation, and regional cooperation in shaping effective water policy and promoting sustainable water management in Central Asia.

During the discussions, participants explored opportunities to expand regional cooperation in hydrological and climate data sharing, joint research, training of young professionals, and implementation of international projects aimed at strengthening water security and climate resilience across the region. Particular emphasis was placed on establishing sustainable mechanisms for scientific cooperation, promoting knowledge exchange, and enhancing professional capacity in the application of RS technology.

Finally, the participants agreed to strengthen professional cooperation, including through the establishment of a communication platform for sharing scientific publications, datasets, information on grant opportunities, and collaborative research. Participants also agreed to prepare a joint analytical review on RS-based water monitoring and management in Central Asia and to hold the final CAHYSPA project workshop next year.

The Central Asia Hydrology from Space (CAHYSPA) demonstrated the strong potential of RS technology, hydrological modeling, and advanced digital tools for water monitoring and management in Central Asia. It also provided an effective platform for scientific exchange, discussions on climate change and transboundary water management challenges, and for identification of priorities for future cooperation among research institutes, government agencies, and international organizations.

SIC’s participation, including the presentation on the science–policy interface in water management, showcased the Center's experience in supporting evidence-based decision-making in the water sector and strengthened its partnerships with regional and international research communities.

The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to further cooperation in joint publications, research projects, and capacity building in the application of RS technology for sustainable water management in Central Asia.

For reference: CAHYSPA (Central Asia Hydrology from Space) – is an international project aiming to produce hydrological information on the Syr Darya watershed, which will feed a monitoring platform based on remote sensing and hydrological/ hydrodynamic models. The relevance of developments, particularly with regard to cross-border river management issues, will be ensured by co-construction with local partners.

БMore details on CAHYSPA and its activities are available here