Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, 24 September 2024 – A representative of the Scientific-Information Center of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development (SIC ICSD) participated in the specialized seminar entitled “Management Approaches and Know-how Tools for the Protection of Critical Water Infrastructure from Natural and Technological Hazards,” organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. The seminar brought together representatives of government institutions of Turkmenistan, research organizations, international experts and development partners to discuss contemporary approaches to strengthening the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of increasing climate-related and technological risks.
The primary objective of the seminar was to familiarize participants with advanced international risk assessment tools, digital technologies and best practices for the management of critical water infrastructure aimed at reducing the vulnerability of water facilities to extreme natural events and emergencies. Particular attention was given to integrating innovative solutions into national water resources management systems and enhancing preparedness and response capacities for hydrological hazards.
During the first thematic session, international experts presented the application of the Hydrologic Engineering Center – Statistical Software Package (HEC-SSP) for flood frequency analysis and the statistical processing of hydrological data. Participants were introduced to modern approaches for assessing the probability of extreme hydrological events, enabling more effective planning of protective measures and improved management of water infrastructure.
A dedicated session focused on the assessment of critical water infrastructure using the Capacity for Disaster Reduction Initiative (CADRI) methodology. Experts presented methodological approaches for assessing the vulnerability of water infrastructure, identifying potential risks and developing comprehensive measures to strengthen resilience. Discussions emphasized institutional preparedness, inter-agency coordination and the integration of risk assessment into strategic planning processes.
During the second half of the seminar, experts presented innovative digital solutions for water resources management, including the application of Hydrological Digital Twins to simulate the operation of water management systems and improve emergency forecasting. Participants also explored the use of satellite data for monitoring the condition of water infrastructure, assessing the impacts of climate-related factors and enhancing evidence-based decision-making.
The knowledge acquired and international experience shared during the seminar will contribute to the continued work of the SIC ICSD in strengthening regional cooperation, improving climate and hydrological risk assessment mechanisms, promoting the application of advanced monitoring technologies, and supporting the implementation of the priorities of the Regional Environmental Programme for Sustainable Development of Central Asia (REP4SD) 2020-2030. In particular, these efforts will advance activities related to assessing the impacts of natural and technological hazards on water systems with a view to preventing ecosystem degradation across Central Asia.
This event supports the achievement of:
| Priority Area dedicated to SDG 6 on "Ensure Availability and Sustainable Management of Water and Sanitation for All" |
| 2.3 Analysis of anthropogenic and natural impacts on environment to prevent ecosystem degradation in Central Asia, including water ecosystems. |