Aral Sea reduction 1973-2000
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Aral Sea reduction 1973-2000
Aral Sea reduction between 1973 and 2000, satellite images. North is at top. THe middle puicture dates from 1989. Since the 1960s the Aral Sea, on the borders of Uzbekistan (south west) and Kazakhstan (north east), has lost more than half of its volume. This is due to overuse of the feeder rivers (the Syr Darya and Amu Darya) in irrigation of cotton and paddy fields. The consequent receding waterline and increased salination has destroyed the regions fishing industry. Exposed areas of salt are blown by winds into the surrounding area, reducing crop yields
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Media ID 6357787
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1973 1989 2000 Aral Sea Arid Brackish Desert Drought Drying Drying Up Earth Observation Evaporating From Space Inland Kazakhstan Lake Panoramic Receding Salt Salty Satellite Satellite Image Shrinking Trio Uzbekistan
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the drastic reduction of the Aral Sea between 1973 and 2000, as seen through satellite images. The image trio reveals the alarming transformation that took place over these decades, with the middle picture dating back to 1989. Once a vast body of water located on the borders of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, this environmental catastrophe has resulted in more than half of its volume being lost since the 1960s. The primary cause behind this devastating decline is attributed to excessive use of feeder rivers, namely Syr Darya and Amu Darya, for irrigation purposes in cotton and paddy fields. As a consequence, not only did the receding waterline obliterate the region's fishing industry but also led to increased salination. This detrimental effect extends further as winds carry exposed salt into surrounding areas, significantly reducing crop yields. The panoramic view captured by satellites in 2000 portrays an arid landscape where once there was a flourishing lake. The drying up process is evident from space, highlighting how this brackish sea has been evaporating rapidly over time. It serves as a stark reminder of human impact on our environment. This thought-provoking image from Science Photo Library emphasizes both geographical changes and ecological consequences caused by human activities such as unsustainable agriculture practices. Let it serve as a call to action for preserving our planet's precious resources before irreversible damage occurs.
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