Comparative analysis of the water flow of the Kigach channel in the Volga delta with the water flow of the Zhaiyk River
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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32523/3107-278X-2026-154-1-118-134Keywords:
water resources of Kazakhstan, small rivers, hydrological analysis, water deficit, transboundary riversAbstract
In the context of limited water resources in Western Kazakhstan, a detailed study of the water resources of understudied watercourses is of particular importance.
This study focuses on an in-depth analysis of the water regime of the Kigach River, one of the major branches of the Volga River delta. The Kigach River is a transboundary water body that flows along the border between Kazakhstan and Russia and partially defines this border.
For a long time, the study of the water resources of the Kigach River has received limited attention. It was not until 2017 that a stationary hydrological post was established on the Kigach River to monitor water flow. Prior to this, only water level observations were conducted on the river.
For the first time, based on stationary hydrological observations and reconstructed series, the long-term characteristics of the Kigach River flow were estimated for the period 1938-2023. The data was reconstructed using flow-level relationship curves and regression equations. It has been established that the long-term average annual water flow in the Kigach channel is 267 m3/s, which is comparable to the water flow in the Zhaiyk River (253 m3/s). However, it should be noted that the amplitude of interannual fluctuations in the Kigach channel is significantly lower.
The results of the study indicate the stability of the water regime in the Kigach channel, which suggests a significant water management potential. The article concludes that it is advisable to take into account the water resources of the Kigach channel when planning measures for water supply in the Caspian regions of Kazakhstan.
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Copyright (c) 2026 S. Akhmetov, S. Amanov (Author)
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