Spanish Company Collaborates with Kazakhstan to Explore Groundwater Resources

A Spanish company, Xcalibur Smart Mapping, will collaborate with Kazakhstan to explore groundwater in western Kazakhstan, guided by Minister Nurzhan Nurzhigitov. An airborne survey is set to map water resources, with funding discussions occurring with the Spanish government. Additionally, Uzbekistan has agreed to boost its water supply to Kazakhstan for the upcoming season.

A Spanish delegation of experts has been authorized to assist Kazakhstan in the exploration of groundwater resources in its western region. This initiative follows successful negotiations led by the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, with Xcalibur Smart Mapping, a Madrid-based firm known for its expertise in airborne and geophysical mapping with a global presence, including offices in Astana.

This year marks the commencement of a collaborative airborne electromagnetic survey aimed at generating detailed maps and identifying groundwater reserves in western Kazakhstan, as disclosed by the ministry on Telegram. Minister Nurzhigitov is actively pursuing a grant from the Spanish government to secure project funding, although discussions are ongoing.

Nurzhigitov stated, “Experts from both sides are working on this issue. A detailed airborne electromagnetic survey will assist in detecting groundwater reserves and their boundaries.” Additionally, it has been reported that in early February, Nurzhigitov and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Water Resources, Shavkat Khamrayev, reached an agreement to enhance Uzbekistan’s annual water supply to Kazakhstan to 16 billion cubic meters (bcm) by October 1, 2024, marking an increase from the previous irrigation season’s supply of 15 bcm. Uzbekistan has also committed to maintaining a consistent water flow through the Dostyk Canal throughout the upcoming irrigation period.

In conclusion, the partnership between the Spanish firm Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Kazakhstan represents a significant step toward enhancing the country’s groundwater exploration efforts. The planned airborne survey aims to create essential maps for identifying groundwater reserves, while discussions regarding potential funding from the Spanish government are underway. Increased collaboration with Uzbekistan on water supply further highlights the interconnectedness of regional water resource management.

Original Source: kz.kursiv.media