Mongolia officially launched the Restoring Ulaan Nuur Lake project at the State Palace on May 6, 2025. This initiative is part of the government’s 2024–2028 Action Program and one of 14 national mega-projects.
The project focuses on building the Tsagaan Burgastai–Ongi Water Complex. It aims to restore Ulaan Nuur Lake, improve regional water balance, and protect critical ecosystems. This effort responds to severe desertification, land degradation, and the effects of climate change.
Seddorj Renchinbyamba, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Economics, explained the project’s scope. He said it would boost water access for 30,000 people, 230,000 livestock, and farmland across five aimags. He also noted the project’s potential to promote green infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change Odontuya Saldan called this initiative a national priority. She stressed that all 14 mega-projects are interconnected and centered around Mongolia’s water resources. Five of the projects will focus on the Gobi region.
Saldan also highlighted the international significance of restoring Ulaan Nuur Lake. The project supports migratory bird habitats protected under the Ramsar Convention. She emphasized that the drying lake reflects regional climate stress, but recovery is now possible.
Director of the Water Department Batbayar Zeneemyadar outlined the environmental strategy. He stated that restoring Ulaan Nuur requires reviving the Ongi River. Encouragingly, the river has shown signs of recovery in recent years. The new water complex will help stabilize that progress with an adjustable reservoir holding 65 million cubic meters.
Construction will create 1,000 temporary jobs and 130 permanent positions. The government expects lasting economic, ecological, and social benefits from the project.
First Deputy Prime Minister Gantumur Luvsannyam joined other officials at the ceremony. Representatives from the Gobi and Khangai regions and five aimags—Gobisumber, Dundgobi, Dornogobi, Uvurkhangai, and Umnugobi—signed a cooperation agreement. All parties pledged strong collaboration to ensure the success of restoring Ulaan Nuur Lake. This project will improve surface water distribution between major regions. It will also reduce yellow dust storms and safeguard natural ecosystems for future generations.
