SHOHIMARDON 1998-YILIGI SEL TOSHQINI

Due to abnormal heat in early July 1998, instruments on the Abramov Glacier recorded an increase in the average daily temperature from seven to twelve degrees Celsius. Throughout the mountainous region, glaciers and snow melted rapidly, and lakes quickly filled with meltwater. Often, the water in high-altitude lakes is held back by temporary dams (moraines) made of glacial ice. Under these conditions, it was crucial to be aware of potential dangers in a timely manner. At that time, the most effective way to obtain information about the operational situation on the glaciers was to fly over the area by helicopter. However, the geographical location of Shakhimardan meant that such a necessary measure required crossing the border into neighboring Kyrgyzstan. In other words, the overflight was extremely difficult and required complex approvals to obtain all the necessary permits. In Shakhimardan, people did not build houses on the riverbank due to the high risk of mudflows down the river. Unfortunately, amusement parks were established there. All of them, including the Ferris wheel, were buried under rocks after the mudflow of July 8th. This terrible flood resulted from the rupture of three moraine lakes below the Archabashi Glacier. Fortunately, the tragedy occurred at night. The rides were practically deserted. The victims were visitors camping in tents near the water. They had neglected safety regulations, or perhaps were unaware of them. Islam Karimov soon arrived at the scene of the tragedy. His mere presence gave strength to the people living in the Shakhimardan enclave. It became absolutely clear to everyone that Uzbekistan would not abandon its own in trouble. Islam Karimov inspected the site of the tragedy and gave all the necessary orders for urgent assistance to the affected people. The tragedy helped negotiate with neighbors for helicopter overflights of the highlands, which were carried out by Uzbek aviators. Before the detailed surveys, they had no idea what else to expect. But the lakes were quiet. Meanwhile, heavy rains poured down below. Another mudflow, caused by them, albeit a minor one, entered the Koksu River near the village of Shakhimardan in early August. This time, there were no casualties or damage.