What waters of the syr darya and Amu Darya rivers which used to flow into the Aral Sea were diverted for?

Answer 1

The waters of the Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers, which historically flowed into the Aral Sea, were largely diverted for irrigation purposes, primarily to support cotton production in the surrounding regions, particularly in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. This extensive diversion for agricultural development led to a significant reduction in the inflow to the Aral Sea, contributing to its dramatic shrinkage and environmental degradation. The unsustainable water management practices have had profound ecological and social consequences for the region.