On the structure, content, and purpose of the National Atlas of Uzbekistan

This 2013 article presents the rationale, concept, proposed contents and intended uses of the National Atlas of Uzbekistan. The authors trace its preparation to earlier national and thematic atlases, including the 1963 atlas and the two-volume scientific reference atlas of 1982–1985, arguing that accumulated information, specialist expertise and printing capacity support the new undertaking. Geographers and cartographers at the National University of Uzbekistan began developing its concept in 2009, aiming to depict the independent state and provide current information on its resources and regional development. The proposed atlas comprises more than 20 sections and about 400 maps with accompanying texts: Volume I covers natural conditions, natural resources and ecology; Volume II covers population, economy, culture and history. Its design combines systematic, comprehensive coverage with historical and dynamic representation, including environmental, assessment, forecasting and cadastral maps and comparisons across years. Subjects specific to Uzbekistan include cotton growing, irrigation, land reclamation, karakul sheep breeding and silk production. The authors envisage uses in research, education, socioeconomic planning, environmental monitoring and land and water management, including assessment of the Aral Sea. These are proposed contents and anticipated applications, not a report on the completed publication.