What caused the Aral Sea to begin shrinking in the 1960s?

The Aral Sea began shrinking in the 1960s primarily due to the diversion of rivers, specifically the Amu Darya and Syr Darya, for the purpose of irrigating cotton fields in the surrounding regions. This large-scale agricultural project aimed to boost cotton production in the Soviet Union during the era of industrialization and collectivization. The extensive irrigation practices redirected water that would have otherwise flowed into the Aral Sea, drastically reducing its inflow.

As a result, the lake's volume diminished significantly, leading to a series of ecological and economic consequences. The reduced water levels led to increased salinity, negatively affecting local fisheries and the health of the ecosystem. The situation illustrates a critical issue where human activities, specifically agricultural practices, can significantly alter natural water systems, highlighting the importance of sustainable resource management. In this case, the strategy focused on maximizing cotton production without considering the long-term impacts on the Aral Sea and its surrounding environment.