Second Groundwater Drilling Forum Advances Professional Standards and Cooperation
The Second Basin Forum of the Groundwater Drilling Industry brought together government agencies, drilling companies and development partners in Sughd Region, Tajikistan, to advance cooperation on groundwater governance and strengthen professional standards in the drilling sector
On 16 September 2026, the Second Basin Forum of the Groundwater Drilling Industry was held in Sughd Region, Tajikistan. The forum was organized within the framework of the Groundwater Management Project in Sughd, Tajikistan bringing together representatives of government authorities, groundwater drilling companies, development partners and other relevant stakeholders to discuss groundwater governance and the professional development of the drilling sector in the region.
Particular attention during the forum was given to progress in developing the groundwater permitting system, the findings of the Training Needs Assessment and a proposed training programme for groundwater drillers. Participants also discussed the draft Charter, Code of Practice and Conduct for the groundwater drilling sector in Sughd Region.
An important milestone of the forum was the election of the Interim Coordination Committee. This step further strengthens the forum as a platform for coordinated action, dialogue and professional development within the groundwater drilling sector.
Participants also discussed the establishment of an online directory of groundwater drilling companies and plans for a study visit to Uzbekistan. These initiatives are intended to promote information sharing, strengthen professional cooperation and support the adoption of good practices in the groundwater drilling industry.
Groundwater Drilling Forum provides a unique platform for cooperation among public institutions, private sector actors, and development partners. Its continued development creates opportunities to strengthen groundwater governance, improve professional standards and support the sustainable and responsible use of groundwater resources in Sughd Region.
