The districts located in the Syrdaryinskaya oblast contain numerous obsolete pesticide burial sites. Although officials maintain the safety of these burial sites, ARMON's independent assessment showed that these sites are leaking pesticides into the air and ground water, are not properly safeguarded against the theft of pesticides, and appear to be a major cause of adverse health impacts in the surrounding communities. In addition, ARMON identified several burial sites not accounted for by official government records, also leaking pesticides. Through a series of seminars and working meetings, community members in the most affected areas developed specific project proposals that address water supply issues, propose monitoring of burial sites, plan for training in the safe handling of pesticides, and empower residents to demand policy changes of local governments.
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