Tajikistan marks Environment Day with lake cleanup
Effort backed by NGOs and residents highlights growing environmental movement in Central Asia’s Amu Darya basin
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan (MNTV) — Environmental activists in Tajikistan are mobilizing volunteers for a large-scale cleanup at Lake Mekhkariyer on June 1, in an effort to tackle plastic pollution and raise awareness about ecological degradation in the Amu Darya river basin.
The initiative is led by eco-journalist Zulfiya Golubeva and mountaineer Vitaliy Hinenzon, the first Tajik national to summit Mount Everest. It coincides with several global observances — World Environment Day, International Children’s Day, and Amu Darya River Day — reflecting broader concerns over the region’s fragile ecosystems.
Independent outlet Asia-Plus reports that the project is aimed at removing plastic and household waste from Lake Mekhkariyer, a body of water located near the Kofirnihon River — a key tributary of the Amu Darya.
The cleanup comes amid growing environmental stress in Central Asia, where water scarcity, pollution, and unsustainable land use continue to threaten livelihoods.
Supported by international and local organizations — including the German development agency GIZ, mobile operator Zet-Mobile, and companies such as Siyoma and Rushon — the event will involve both local residents and urban volunteers.
Community members from nearby villages like Daryoobod and Chimteppa are also expected to participate.
Organizers say the event aims to spotlight both the ecological importance of Central Asia’s water systems and the role of civic engagement in environmental protection.
While the cleanup is localized, it echoes wider regional efforts to promote responsible waste management and sustainable water use.
The use of inflatable boats will allow volunteers to access harder-to-reach zones of the lake. Organizers have emphasized the need for sun protection and basic safety precautions due to the exposed terrain and potential hazards in the water.
The event is part of a growing environmental movement in Tajikistan, where grassroots campaigns are emerging to fill gaps left by limited state resources.
Organizers hope it will inspire similar actions across the country and spark greater attention to the environmental challenges facing the broader Amu Darya watershed.
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