Artificial glacier technology is emerging as a promising solution to help Kyrgyz farmers adapt to the growing challenges of climate change. By enhancing irrigation efficiency and ensuring a more reliable water supply, these innovations aim to strengthen the resilience of mountain communities dependent on agriculture.
The technology was the focus of a roundtable discussion held on June 17 in Bishkek, titled “Technical Solutions for Improving Water Availability in Irrigation Systems for Mountain Communities in Kyrgyzstan Under Climate Change.”
At the event, Oleg Guchgeldiyev, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative in Kyrgyzstan, presented a new FAO initiative to develop and expand artificial glacier infrastructure in the country. The project is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan.
With natural glaciers rapidly retreating due to global warming, water scarcity during the summer months has become a critical concern for Kyrgyz farmers. Artificial glaciers, engineered ice structures formed in winter and melted during warmer periods, offer a low-cost, scalable method of ensuring water availability during the growing season.
“Artificial glaciers are not just a technological solution,” Guchgeldiyev said. “These innovations serve as a pillar of resilience for rural communities in a changing climate. Such projects strengthen food security and promote long-term agricultural development.”
How the Technology Works
The FAO’s “Glacier – Reservoir – Farmer” system combines artificial glaciers with small water reservoirs and modern irrigation methods such as drip systems. Water is collected from mountain springs and funneled through a pipeline to a vertical outlet pipe, 10 to 15 meters high. The elevation difference generates pressure that sprays water into the air. In winter, this spray freezes, gradually forming an ice cone. In summer, the stored ice melts and is directed to nearby reservoirs, from which it is distributed to fields for irrigation and livestock use.
“Location is critical for glacier construction,” noted Matraim Jusupov, an FAO expert in agriculture and water management. “On average, one artificial glacier can supply water for 300 to 500 hectares of land.”
The integration of reservoirs and pipeline systems minimizes water loss and enhances distribution efficiency, improving crop yields and rural livelihoods.
Early Implementation and Expansion
Kyrgyzstan already has over 30 artificial glaciers, with early projects implemented in the Uzgen, Kochkor, and Aksy districts.
As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, In autumn 2024, seven more artificial glaciers were constructed in villages across the Batken region as part of the FAO’s broader climate adaptation strategy.
These initiatives are part of Kyrgyzstan’s growing efforts to modernize its water infrastructure and build resilience against the intensifying impacts of climate change on its agriculture-dependent economy.
