Environmental policy in the 16th century

Water is the source of life. Yet it is not merely a drinking resource or a natural asset it has been a decisive factor in historical development, agricultural policies, and even the stability of political power. In regions like Central Asia, with an arid climate, low annual rainfall, but abundant river networks, irrigation systems have long served as a measure of progress. In particular, during the reign of the Shaybanid dynasty in the 16th century, policies for managing irrigation and water resources marked a distinct historical stage.

The Shaybanids and irrigation: an example of balanced policy

The irrigation system established under Shaybanid rule (primarily in the 16th century) was not merely a set of water structures, but the historical product of centralized state administration, science, engineering, and social planning. Through this system, rivers were brought under control, and irrigation networks were developed along the Amu Darya, Syr Darya, Zarafshan, and Murghab rivers and their tributaries, channeling water through natural and artificial routes for agriculture. This strengthened the foundations of agrarian life, increased labor productivity, and boosted the local economy.

Irrigation in historical works

The work Mehmonnoma-yi Bukhara places particular emphasis on the irrigation systems along the Syr Darya. Numerous canals were dug from the river to irrigate croplands. These accounts show that in the Shaybanid era, waterworks were seen not only as a natural necessity but also as the product of deliberate political focus.

Major constructions along the Zarafshan

In 1502, a water-diversion bridge was built by Shaybani Khan on the Zarafshan River to ensure fair distribution of water along the valley. This structure was more than simple engineering; it was proof of a planned approach to irrigation management.

Similarly, in the 1580s, the “Abdullakhon Band” dam was built in the Beklarsay gorge under Abdullah Khan II. Constructed from slate stones and special lime mortar, it had the capacity to store 1.2 million cubic meters of water and irrigated 1,200 hectares of land. This system formed a central branch of the regional economy.

Expansion of regional irrigation networks

Under the Shaybanids, irrigation was not limited to central regions. Along the Zarafshan River, structures such as the Puli Karmana, Puli Mehtar, and Puli Jondor waterworks were built, and the Tuyatortar canal was used to supply water to the Jizzakh oasis. In the Murghab River basin, the Hovuzkhon reservoir and its connected canals irrigated the surroundings of Merv.

Moreover, as the socio-political influence of the Juybar shaykhs grew, irrigation systems around their lands were further expanded. Canals were taken from the Vakhsh River to increase the income potential of these territories. Although construction often relied on the forced labor of local populations, the results had a significant impact on the national economy.

During the reign of Abdullah Khan II, the Bukhara Khanate entered a stage of political, economic, and cultural flourishing. In particular, the development of the irrigation system, the improvement of land and water relations, and the growth of urban planning, crafts, and trade are recognized as key indicators of progress in this period. Through agrarian reforms, Abdullah Khan paid great attention to stabilizing agriculture and improving the well-being of the population. By regulating land ownership and developing irrigation facilities, the economic foundations of the country were strengthened.

With the initiative of our President, the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is intended to actively study this scholarly and cultural heritage and promote it internationally. The Center not only advances religious and educational approaches, but also focuses on in-depth analysis of historical irrigation systems, urban culture, and economic reforms. This makes it possible to restore historical memory and use it as a source of inspiration for modern development.

Thus, large-scale engineering structures such as the Abdullakhon Band, along with the political and economic reforms associated with them, have practical relevance for Uzbekistan’s current development path. Reforms based on historical experience, fair governance, and scientific approaches are serving the stable and prosperous future of our country.

Husan Tursunov

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