Toktogul Lake

Toktogul Reservoir:

Overview

- Location: Kyrgyzstan

- River: Naryn River

- Coordinates: Approximately 41°45′N 72°56′E

History and Construction

- Completion: The Toktogul Dam and Reservoir were completed in 1976.

- Purpose: It was constructed primarily for hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control.

Specifications

- Type of Dam: Concrete gravity dam

- Height: Approximately 215 meters (705 feet)

- Length: Approximately 292 meters (958 feet)

 Capacity

- Total Capacity: About 19.5 cubic kilometers (4.7 cubic miles)

- Surface Area: Approximately 284 square kilometers (110 square miles)

- Active Storage Capacity: Roughly 14 cubic kilometers (3.4 cubic miles)

Hydroelectric Power Plant

- Installed Capacity: 1,200 MW

- Annual Generation: The Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Plant is the largest in Kyrgyzstan, significantly contributing to the country's electricity supply.

 Environmental and Economic Impact

- Irrigation: The reservoir supports extensive irrigation systems in the Fergana Valley, benefiting agriculture.

- Flood Control: It helps in regulating the flow of the Naryn River, thus aiding in flood control downstream.

- Tourism and Recreation: The reservoir is also a site for recreational activities like fishing and boating, contributing to local tourism.

Issues and Challenges

- Sedimentation: Like many reservoirs, Toktogul faces sedimentation issues, which can affect its capacity and efficiency over time.

- Environmental Concerns: The creation of the reservoir has led to ecological changes in the region, affecting local wildlife and habitats.

- Water Management: As a critical water source for multiple uses, the reservoir's management is crucial for balancing energy production, agricultural needs, and water supply.

 Future Prospects

- Upgrades: There have been discussions and plans for upgrading the hydroelectric power facilities to increase efficiency and capacity.

- Regional Cooperation: The reservoir plays a role in regional water management agreements, particularly with neighboring countries that rely on the Naryn River's flow.

The Toktogul Reservoir remains a vital infrastructure element for Kyrgyzstan, playing a significant role in energy production, agriculture, and regional water management.