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Russian oceanographers have documented a striking acceleration in the growth of the Caspian Sea's coastline، directly linked to a noticeable decrease in its water levels. This phenomenon is reshaping coastal landscapes and raising new questions about the future of this unique inland sea.

Expanding Shores and New Islands

Specialists from the P.P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology have identified an expansion of the coastline due to the emergence of both existing and newly formed islands. For instance، the island known as "Chistaya Banka" has doubled in size since 2019. This dramatic increase is attributed to the receding waters of the Caspian Sea، which have exposed new landmasses along its eastern، western، and southern edges.

Another island، formed in the area of the former Tbilisi Bank، has also experienced rapid growth، tripling its area compared to the previous year. These changes highlight the dynamic nature of the Caspian's shoreline in response to fluctuating water levels.

Investigating Currents and Seabed

To better understand these changes، researchers conducted detailed studies of currents and the seabed in the northern Caspian Sea. They utilized hydroacoustic devices، including multi-beam echo sounders، to measure the speed and direction of water flow and map the underwater topography.

The data gathered during this expedition provides crucial، up-to-date information on the condition of the studied waters. It serves to confirm the ongoing trend of a progressive decline in the Caspian Sea's water level.

Expert Observations

Ivan Ermakov، a junior researcher and the expedition leader from the institute، stated، "For now، one thing is clear – the sea level is dropping." This direct observation underscores the significance of the findings and the observable environmental shifts occurring in the region.

In related environmental news، the World Bank recently approved funding for a major ecological project focused on the Caspian Sea، with the Global Environment Facility allocating a $11.74 million grant and planning an additional $8.24 million.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.