Kherlen-Toono & Orkhon-Ongi Water Supply Projects: Securing Mongolia’s Future

Mongolia’s “Kherlen-Toono” and “Orkhon-Ongi” projects aim to transfer northern river water to the Gobi region, securing vital resources for mining, urban growth, and long-term sustainability.

Strategic Context

Mongolia faces increasing pressure on its freshwater resources due to climate change, urban expansion, and the rapid growth of mining and industrial sectors—particularly in the arid southern regions. To address this, the government has launched two major water diversion and supply projects:

• Kherlen-Toono Water Transfer Project

• Orkhon-Ongi Water Transfer Project

These initiatives aim to redirect surface water from northern rivers to the Gobi region, where water demand far exceeds natural availability. Together, they form the backbone of Mongolia’s national water security strategy and are integral to the country’s long-term development vision.

Project Overviews

1. Kherlen-Toono Water Transfer Project

• Source: Kherlen River (Khentii Province)

• Destination: Toono area in the Gobi region

• Purpose: Supply water to mining operations, industrial zones, and communities in southeastern Mongolia

• Infrastructure: Includes pumping stations, reservoirs, pipelines, and monitoring systems

2. Orkhon-Ongi Water Transfer Project

• Source: Orkhon River (Arkhangai Province)

• Destination: Ongi River basin and surrounding areas in southern Mongolia

• Purpose: Support water needs of the Oyu Tolgoi mine, Tavan Tolgoi coal basin, and other strategic assets

• Infrastructure: Long-distance pipeline network, water treatment facilities, and ecological safeguards

 Technical Components

Component	Description
Pumping Stations	High-capacity systems to lift water across elevation gradients
Reservoirs & Storage	Buffer zones to regulate seasonal flow and ensure year-round supply
Pipeline Networks	Hundreds of kilometers of insulated, corrosion-resistant pipelines
Monitoring Systems	Real-time flow tracking, leak detection, and environmental sensors
Treatment Facilities	Ensure water quality meets industrial and domestic standards

Economic and Strategic Impact

• Mining Sector Support: Enables sustainable operation of key mines like Oyu Tolgoi and Tavan Tolgoi

• Industrial Development: Facilitates growth of processing plants, logistics hubs, and energy facilities

• Urban Expansion: Supports water supply for new towns and settlements in the Gobi region

• National Resilience: Reduces dependence on groundwater, which is increasingly depleted and vulnerable

Environmental and Social Considerations

• Ecological Balance: Projects include flow regulation to prevent over-extraction from source rivers

• Community Engagement: Local consultations and compensation mechanisms for affected areas

• Climate Adaptation: Designed to withstand drought cycles and seasonal variability

• Cultural Sensitivity: Preservation of sacred water sites and integration of traditional water stewardship values\

Current Status and Outlook

As of 2025:

• Feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments have been completed

• Construction of initial segments is underway, with phased implementation planned through 2030

• International partners, including development banks and engineering firms, are involved in financing and execution

• Public awareness campaigns are being launched to explain benefits and address concerns

Communication Opportunities

To build public trust and stakeholder alignment, consider:

• Interactive maps showing water flow paths and impact zones

• Infographics comparing water demand vs. supply across regions

• Short documentaries featuring local voices and ecological perspectives

• Policy briefs for government and donor audiences highlighting sustainability and strategic value