Chorokhi - Adjaristskali River Basin, Georgia - Environmental ...

0 River Basin Analysis in The Chorokhi - Adjaristskali pilot basin, Georgia 

Project Funded by the 

European Union 

Environmental Protection of Internatinal River Basins 

(EPIRB) 

Contract No 2011/279-666 

This project is implemented by a 

Consortium led by Hulla and Co. Human 

Dynamics KG 

Prepared by Information Engineering Center – IEC 

Tbilisi,2013


Contents 

1. CHARACHTERISATION OF THE CHOROKHI-ADJARISTKALI PILOT BASIN .................................... 4 

1.2 Basin Overview .......................................................................................................................... 4 

1.1.1 General Overview ...................................................................................................................... 4 

1.1.3 Identification of an Authorized Agency to Potentially Implement RBPM ................................. 4 

1.2 Geographic Overview ................................................................................................................ 5 

1.2.1 Overview of the Basin’s Natural Environment .......................................................................... 5 

1.2.2 Climate....................................................................................................................................... 6 

1.2.3 Vegetation Cover ..................................................................................................................... 13 

1.2.4 Protected Areas ....................................................................................................................... 19 

1.2.4.1 Sanitary protection zones for drinking water supply systems and related regulations ........ 19 

1.2.4.2 Areas designated for the protection of habitats and species ................................................ 20 

1.2.5 Geology and Geomorphology ................................................................................................. 22 

1.2.5.1 Geology .................................................................................................................................. 22 

1.2.5.2 Geo-morphology .................................................................................................................... 26 

1.2.6 Geo-dynamic Processes: Landslides, Mudflows and Rockfall ................................................. 29 

1.3 Hydrologic Characteristics of the Pilot Basin........................................................................... 33 

1.3.1 Surface Waters ........................................................................................................................ 41 

1.3.2 Surface Water Uses ................................................................................................................. 47 

1.3.3 Natural Lakes and Reservoirs .................................................................................................. 50 

1.3.4 Ground Waters ........................................................................................................................ 50 

2. HUMAN ACTIVITIES IN THE PILOT BASIN................................................................................. 59 

Introductory note ............................................................................................................................... 59 

2.1. Demography ............................................................................................................................ 59 

2.2. Overview of economic activities in the basin .......................................................................... 65 

2.3. Agriculture, irrigation .............................................................................................................. 71 

2.4. Water abstraction and wastewater discharge ........................................................................ 78 

2.5. Industry and mining................................................................................................................. 81 

2.6. Hydropower generation .......................................................................................................... 83 

2.7. Waste disposal ........................................................................................................................ 88 

2.8. Fish farms ................................................................................................................................ 89


2.9. Transportation and navigation ................................................................................................ 90 

2.10. Forestry ................................................................................................................................... 95 

2.11. Tourism .................................................................................................................................... 97 

2.12. Trends in human activity ......................................................................................................... 98 

3. PRESSURES AND IMPACT ANALYSIS IN THE PILOT BASIN ..................................................... 100 

Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 100 

3.1 Water Abstractions and River Flow Regulation .................................................................... 101 

3.1.1 Drinking and Industrial Water Abstractions .......................................................................... 101 

3.1.2 Water Abstraction for Irrigation ............................................................................................ 104 

3.1.1 Water Abstractions and Flow Regulation for Hydropower Generation ................................ 105 

3.2 Diffused Sources of Pollution ................................................................................................ 109 

3.2.1 Agriculture ............................................................................................................................. 109 

3.2.2 Solid Household Waste ......................................................................................................... 110 

3.2.3 Roads and Transport ............................................................................................................. 111 

3.3 Point Sources of Pollution ..................................................................................................... 113 

3.4 Physical and Morphological Changes of Water Objects ........................................................ 115 

3.5 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 119 

4. MONITORING IN THE PILOT RIVER BASIN ............................................................................. 122 

4.1 Surface Water Quality Monitoring ........................................................................................ 122 

4.1.1 Water Quality Monitoring and Existing Relevant Infrastructure .......................................... 122 

4.1.2 Methodology for Assessment of Surface Water Quality ....................................................... 123 

4.1.3 Selection of Criteria for Chemical Substances and their Analysis ......................................... 126 

4.1.4 QA/QC Systems ..................................................................................................................... 131 

4.2 Hydromorphological monitoring ........................................................................................... 134 

4.2.1 Hydromorphological Monitoring in the Pilot River Basin ..................................................... 134 

4.2.2 Methodology and Observation Frequency ........................................................................... 134 

4.2.3 Hydromorphological Monitoring and Quality Control Elements .......................................... 135 

4.3 Groundwater Monitoring ...................................................................................................... 136 

4.4 Biological Monitoring ............................................................................................................ 136 

5. ANNEXES (MAPS)................................................................................................................... 138 

6. BIBLIOGRAPHY ....................................................................................................................... 141


CHAPTER 1: CHARACHTERISATION OF THE 

CHOROKHI-ADJARISTKALI PILOT BASIN


1. CHARACHTERISATION OF THE CHOROKHI-ADJARISTKALI PILOT 

BASIN 

1.2 Basin Overview 

1.1.1 General Overview 

The report is a general overview of the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali pilot basin covering the areas 

of geographic, climate, hydrology, water quality, and environmental characteristics and 

analysis. The report also touches upon the socio-economic aspects of the basin and effects of 

human activity over natural conditions of the basin. Chorokhi-Adjaristskali basin practically 

fully covers the territory of Ajara Autonomous Republic, which reflects on its special 

significance, as the dynamic marine infrastructure and growing tourism in the region 

requires increased utilization of natural resources of the basin. The report highlights use of 

water and land resources, which highly impacts surface and groundwater quality, and which, 

in its turn, defines the overall ecologic condition of the basin. Hence, the report gives a 

detailed picture of the current state of the natural resources of the basin, as well as 

anthropogenic factors, including linkages and their interrelation. 

The report also covers the process of ecologic monitoring of the pilot basin, its capacities and 

access to relevant data. Capacities of the respective institutions and authorities to take over 

the basin management in the future were also studied and discussed in terms of RBMP 

implementation. 

1.1.3 Identification of an Authorized Agency to Potentially Implement RBPM 

Despite the fact that at this stage there is no organization identified to implement fullfledged 

management of the basin, we can still single out Directorate for Environment and 

Natural Resources of Ajara Autonomous Republic (DENR) and the Black Sea Monitoring 

Division (BSMD) of the National Environmental Agency (NEA) of Georgia which are 

responsible for environmental assessment and monitoring in the region. Since 2007 DENR 

has been implementing the following programmes: 

1. Monitoring of qualitative indicators of the sea water on Sarpi-Cholokhi section of Ajara 

coastline, and potable water in the water collection areas; and 

2. Monitoring of the implementation of environmental requirements envisaged by law in 

the areas of atmospheric heavy pollution and coastline sea waters;


Within the framework of the projects DENR carries out regular patrolling in the sea and 

rivers for testing air and water samples, identifies the cases of violation of the Georgian 

Environmental Law and responds to them. 

1.2 Geographic Overview 

1.2.1 Overview of the Basin’s Natural Environment 

Chorokhi-Adjaristskali pilot basin is located in Ajara Autonomous Republic and covers 

significant part of its territory. This historic part of Georgia lies in South-Western part of the 

country on the Black Sea coast. The largest city is Batumi. Guria region borders with the 

basin from the North, Samtskhe- Javakheti from the East, Karchkhali Belt from the South, 

and Arsiani Belt from the West. (Please see Annex 1) 

The major part of the pilot basin is covered with mountains and deep gorges, while the 

coastline consists of Kobuleti and Kakhaberi valleys. Ajara region is surrounded by Meskheti, 

Shavsheti and Arsiani gorges. In the coastline valleys there is humid subtropical climate with 

cold winters and hot summers. In the mountainous areas air is humid, winter – moderately 

cold, and summers brief and warm. Ajara is distinguished with its conveniently warm 

climate. Ajara territory is varied, with mountainous areas as well as valleys and gorges, rich 

fauna, and ancient historic and architectural heritage. 

Kvariati Resort near Turkish border


1.2.2 Climate 

Chorokhi-Adjaristskali Basin territory expands over the extreme southern part of Kolkheti 

Valley and mountainous Ajara. Kolkheti Valley is characterized by humid subtropical 

climate, while in the mountainous Ajara, mainly situated in the Adjaristskali River valley 

and is surrounded by Meskheti and Shavsheti belts and their southern branches, dry climatic 

conditions prevail. 

Climatic description of these territories is based on multi-year data gathered by 

meteorological stations operating over the given territory or adjacent areas. 

Meteorological stations operating on the territory of the basin or neighbouring areas 

The list of meteorological stations operating over the territory of the Chorokhi River basin 

and in the neighboring areas by elevation above sea level and starting date of the observation 

activity is given in the Table 1 below. 

Table 1. Meteo-stations operationg in Ajara 

Meteorological 

Station 

Elevation 

a.s.l. 

(meters) 

Air 

temperature 

(observation 

since) 

Soil 

temperature 

(observation 

since) 

Sedimentation 

/ Snow Cover 

(observation 

since) 

Precipitation 

(observation 

since) 

Batumi 2 1882 1949 1891/1892 1936 1936 

Charnali 310 1952 1952 1952/1952 1952 1952 

Kapandiba 20 1941 _ 1941/_ 1941 1956 

Makhuntseti 138 1928 _ 1928/_ _ 1947 

Keda 256 1930 1948 1934/1935 1936 1936 

Khulo 923 1930 1952 1900/1930 1936 1937 

Purtio 565 1926 _ 1927/_ _ _ 

Chakvistavi 315 1936 _ 1938/1940 _ _ 

Source: Справочники по климату СССР, выпуск 14, Ленинград, изд. ,,гидрометеоиздат". 1970 г. 

Wind velocity 

and 

directions 

(observation 

since) 

According to the data provided by these meteorological stations and sites, daylight period is 

long year-round and its average annual length varies between 1800-2200 hours. Total 

radiation rate is also quite high and varies between 110-130 kcal/sm2. 

Average, monthly, annual and extreme air temperatures in t 0 C 

Air temperature – one of the key factors defining climate conditions, is directly linked to sun 

radiation, and its average, monthly, annual and extreme rates based on the multi-year data


provided by the meteorological stations operating over the given territory and its proximity 

is given in the Table 2 below. 

Table 2. Avarage, monthly, annual and extreme temperatures 


Station 

Temperature I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Annual 

Average 6.7 6.7 8.2 11.3 15.9 20.2 22.9 23.1 20.1 16.2 12.1 9.0 14.4 

Batumi Abs. 

25 28 32 38 38 38 40 40 37 33 29 28 40 

maximum 

Abs. 

-9 -8 -7 -2 2 9 13 13 7 2 -6 -7 -9 

minimum 

Average 5.7 5.9 7.7 11.2 15.0 18.5 20.9 21.5 18.8 16.1 12.0 8.6 13.5 

Charnali Abs. 

24 26 31 36 37 40 41 43 37 34 30 28 43 

maximum 

Abs. 

- - -8 -2 2 9 11 12 6 2 -4 -7 -10 

minimum 10 10 

Average 6.5 6.8 8.9 12.2 16.2 20.0 22.5 22.7 19.8 16.5 12.5 8.8 14.4 

Kapandiba Abs. 

24 28 32 38 38 40 40 41 39 36 30 29 41 

maximum 

Abs. 

-8 -8 -7 -1 3 10 13 13 6 2 -3 -6 -8 

minimum 

Average 3.2 4.8 7.9 12.0 16.4 19.4 21.9 22.3 19.0 14.8 10.2 5.8 13.1 

Makhuntseti Abs. 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

maximum 

Abs. 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

minimum 

Average 3.1 4.0 7.4 12.1 16.1 19.1 21.3 21.5 18.4 14.2 9.8 5.3 12.7 

Keda 

Abs. 

22 26 31 36 38 42 42 41 40 33 27 23 42 

maximum 

Abs. 

- - - -4 1 6 10 9 3 0 -11 -12 -15 

minimum 15 15 11 

Average 0.9 1.7 4.6 9.4 14.2 16.5 18.6 19.4 16.2 12.3 7.8 3.6 10.4 

Khulo 

Abs. 

17 21 24 31 35 39 39 39 38 32 27 22 39 

maximum 

Abs. 

- - - -9 -2 4 7 7 0 -3 -12 -13 -18 

minimum 18 18 13 

Average 1.5 2.6 5.7 9.8 15.2 17.6 20.1 20.2 16.6 12.2 7.6 2.8 11.0 

Abs. maximum 20 25 31 36 37 39 40 41 38 33 30 23 41 

Purtio 

Abs. minimum -15 -14 -13 -5 -1 4 7 8 2 -3 -9 -13 -15 

Average 5.0 5.4 7.3 11.3 15.0 17.9 20.0 20.5 17.7 14.9 10.8 7.4 12.8 

Abs. maximum 24 27 32 37 37 40 40 41 37 35 28 27 41 

Chakvistavi 

Abs. minimum -14 -14 -9 -3 1 7 10 11 3 -1 -6 -8 -14 

Source: Справочники по климату СССР, выпуск 14, Ленинград, изд. ,,гидрометеоиздат". 1970 г.(Table.#2) 

As the Table 2 shows, the hottest months in the region are July and August, with January 

and February being the coldest. 

Freeze, i.e. cooling of the air below 0 0 C against the average day-night positive temperature 

starts in November and ends in April on average. 

First and last freeze dates and duration of freeze-free periods in the number of days


First and last freeze dates, as well as the duration of freeze-free periods in the number of 

days, based on the multi-year observation data of the same meteorological stations, is given 

in the Table 3 below. 

Table 3. First and last freeze dates 

Meteorological Station 

First 

Freeze dates 

Last 

Average Early Late Average Early Late 

Freeze-free periods in 

days 

Average Shortest Longest 

Batumi 1.I. 24.XI. 8.III. 4.III. 24.I. 2.IV 302 233 404 

Charnali 20.XII. - - 14.III. - - 280 - - 

Kapandiba 1.I - - 9.III - - 297 - - 

Makhuntseti 8.XII. - - 19.III - - 263 - - 

Keda 4.XII 1.X 12.I 21.III 5.II. 24.IV 257 167 322 

Khulo 6.IX 30.IX 6.XII 14.IV 5.III 12.V 205 160 238 

Purtio 18.IX _ _ 7.IV _ _ 224 _ _ 

Chakvistavi 19.XII _ _ 20.III _ _ 273 _ _ 

Source: Справочники по климату СССР, выпуск 14, Ленинград, изд. ,,гидрометеоиздат". 1970 г. 

Ground surface temperature (GST), which is defined by the type of soil, its mechanical 

composition, soil moisture, vegetation cover in summer and snow cover in winter, and 

measured at the uppermost millimetres of the soil. Its value is closely linked with air 

temperature values. 

Average, monthly, annual and extreme ground temperatures in t 0 C 

Average, monthly, annual, average maximum and average minimum temperatures, based on 

the multi-year observation data of Batumi, Charnali, Keda and Khulo meteorological stations, 

are given in the table 4 below. 

Table 4. Avarage, monthly, annual and extreme temperatures 


stations 

Batumi 

Charnali 

Temperature I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year 

Average 5 6 9 14 19 24 26 25 21 16 11 7 15 

Average 12 13 18 26 33 39 40 39 34 28 19 14 26 

maximum 

Average 

minimum 

1 1 3 6 11 15 18 18 15 11 7 3 9 

Average 3 4 7 13 19 23 25 24 20 16 10 6 14 

Average 11 12 18 27 36 40 41 40 34 29 20 14 27 

maximum 

Average -1 -1 2 6 10 14 17 17 14 10 6 1 8 

minimum


Average 1 2 7 13 18 23 25 24 20 14 8 3 13 

Keda 

Average 7 10 19 28 35 40 42 40 35 28 17 10 26 

maximum 

Average -2 -1 2 6 11 14 17 17 14 9 4 -1 8 

minimum 

Average 0 0 5 12 19 23 25 25 19 14 7 2 13 

Khulo 

Average 9 6 17 32 40 44 45 46 38 30 17 9 28 

maximum 

Average -5 -5 -2 4 8 12 14 15 11 6 2 -3 5 

minimum 


Average first and last frost dates, and the duration of frost-free periods in the number of days 

Average first and last frost dates, and the duration of frost-free periods in the number of 

days, based on the multi-year observation data of the meteorological stations listed above are 

given in the Table 5 below. 

Table 5. Avarage first and last frost dates 

Average frost dates 

Meteorological stations First frost date Last frost date 

Duration of frost-free Periods in number of days 

(Autumn) (Spring) 

Batumi 6.XII 31.III 249 

Charnali 9.XI 1.IV 221 

Keda 15.XI 31.III 228 

Khulo 1.XI 24.IV 190 


Monthly and annual average rainfall in mm 

Atmospheric precipitation, which represents one of the key elements defining climatic and 

hydrologic regime of the region, is a surplus in coastline areas and limited in the Ajaristkhali 

River basin of the research territory. Average annual rainfall on the given territory varies 

between 1034 and 4519 mm. At the same time, minimum precipitation is recorded in the 

warm months of the year, while during the rest of the year, the average rainfall is practically 

equally distributed by months. Monthly and annual average rainfall based on the multi-year 

observation data of the same meteorological stations is given in the Table 6 below. 

Table 6. Monthly and annual average rainfall (mm) 

Meteorological I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year 

stations 

Batumi 281 228 174 122 92 163 182 255 335 306 304 276 2718 

Charnali 378 305 198 130 97 170 190 266 353 328 337 330 3082 

Kapandiba 238 195 153 110 83 146 168 236 310 280 273 244 2436


Makhuntseti 202 173 144 80 69 120 132 165 222 256 209 207 1979 

Makho 254 208 161 111 84 148 167 234 306 280 278 253 2484 

Maradidi 193 163 138 78 67 116 129 160 214 249 201 192 1900 

Keda 186 166 132 76 74 83 94 98 161 217 202 163 1652 

Khulo 164 125 105 71 83 85 69 65 97 155 162 140 1321 

Purtio 123 90 86 57 67 68 55 52 77 124 128 107 1034 

Chakvistvali 281 229 203 119 108 165 187 245 324 314 290 265 2730 

Tsiskara 508 412 315 206 141 250 282 397 515 488 510 495 4519 


Maximum 24 hour precipitation of different probablity in mm (annual) 

24 hour precipitation maximum volume in this region is quite high. 24 hour precipitation 

maximum of 231 mm was recorded by Batumi meteorological station on 25 August 1948. 

Maximum 24 hour precipitation of various sources based on the multi-year observation data 

by Batumi and Khulo meteorological stations is given in the Table 7 below. 

Table 7. Maximum 24 precipitation 

Meteorological Average 

station 

maximum 

(mm) 

Probability% 

Recorded 

maximum 

63 20 10 5 2 1 mm Date 

Batumi 128 110 162 185 203 224 238 231 25.VIII.1948 

Khulo 61 54 74 82 89 98 105 100 5.X.1949 

Source: Справочники по климату СССР, выпуск 14, Ленинград, изд. ,,гидрометеоиздат". 1970 г. (Table.#7) 

Monthly and annual average air humidity 

Air humidity is one of the key elements of climate. It is mainly measured according to three 

main characteristics: absolute humidity, i.e. resilience of water vapor, relative humidity and 

humidity deficit. The first one characterizesthe amount of water vapor in the air, the second 

– density of vapor in the air, and the latter refers to the probable degree of evaporation. 

Humidity levels are quite high in the area under consideration. It is noteworthy that annual 

records of absolute humidity and its deficit practically coincide with that of the air 

temperature. Monthly and average air humidity levels based on multi-annual observation 

data of Batumi, Charnali, Keda and Khulo meteorological stations is given in the Table 8 

below. 

Table 8. Monthly and average humidity levels 


station 

Batumi 

Humidity I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year 

Absolute 7.4 7.6 8.3 10.5 14.8 18.9 22.2 22.8 19.2 14.8 11.5 8.4 13.9 

millibar 

Relative 74 77 80 80 81 78 78 80 82 83 80 73 79


% 

Deficit 3.2 2.9 2.6 3.4 3.9 5.7 6.4 6.0 4.4 3.3 3.3 3.6 4.1 

millibar 

Absolute 5.9 6.1 6.8 9.0 13.2 17.4 20.8 21.1 17.6 13.0 9.6 6.7 12.3 

millibar 

Charnali Relative 66 68 72 74 78 80 82 82 82 74 69 63 74 

% 

Deficit 4.1 4.1 4.0 5.2 5.0 4.7 4.5 4.4 4.1 4.9 5.2 5.0 4.6 

millibar 

Absolute 6.1 6.2 6.9 9.2 13.0 16.7 20.1 20.4 16.9 12.5 9.5 7.0 12.0 

millibar 

Keda 

Relative 78 76 73 70 73 76 80 82 83 81 79 77 77 

% 

Deficit 2.1 2.6 3.7 5.6 6.3 6.4 5.9 5.6 4.6 3.7 3.2 2.5 4.4 

millibar 

Absolute 4.5 4.7 5.2 7.0 10.1 13.2 16.2 16.0 12.9 9.4 7.0 5.2 9.3 

millibar 

Khulo 

Relative 69 69 68 64 66 72 77 75 74 70 66 65 70 

% 

Deficit 2.4 2.6 3.4 5.7 7.0 6.7 6.1 6.8 5.9 5.3 4.4 3.4 5.0 

millibar 


Dates of first and last measurable snow 

According to the multi-year observation data of the same meteorological stations, the earliest 

snow cover appears at October 1 st (M/S Khulo, Keda) and the last snow disappears at May 1 st 

(W/S Khulo). At the same time, based on Khulo meteorological station data, the average 

volume of snow per decade is 248 cm. Dates of first and last measurable snow based on the 

multi-year observation data of the same meteorological stations is given in the Table 9 below. 

Table 9. First and last measurable snow 


station 

Snowfall duration in 

days 

First snow 

Last snow 

Average Early Late Average Early Late 

Batumi 12 13.I. 14.XI. - 24.II. - 20.IV. 

Charnali 29 25.XII. - - 17.III. - - 

Keda 45 14.XII 1.X. _ 18.III. _ 10.IV 

Khulo 86 14.XI 1.X 6.I 5.IV 14.II 1.V 


Wind directions and still meteorological periods 

Wind directions vary over the basin territory, however the coastline areas are mainly 

characterized by south-west and south-east winds, while north and south, as well as east and 

west direction winds are frequent in the Adjaristskali River basin. Wind directions and still


meteorological periods based on multi-year observation data of the same meteorological 

stations is given in the Table 10 below. 

Table 10. Wind directions 


stations 

N N- 

E 

E S- 

E 

S S- 

W 

W N- 

W 

# of days with still 

Met.conditions 

Batumi 9 8 11 13 12 24 14 9 18 

Charnali 4 2 23 14 7 29 11 10 22 

Kapandiba 2 0 2 51 16 1 14 14 25 

Keda 1 9 26 8 6 19 29 2 56 

Khulo 26 21 1 1 24 20 3 4 14 


Monthly and annual average wind velocity in m/s 

The average wind velocity over the territory under consideration is high and based on 

Kapandiba meteorological station data comes to 5.3 m/s, while average maximum wind 

velocity has been recorded in December and comes to 7.9 m/s. 

Monthly and annual average wind velocity based on the multi-year data of the same 

meteorological stations is given in the Table 11 below. 

Table 11. Monthly and average wind velocity 


stations 

Wind 

vane 

height 

I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year 

Batumi 17 m. 2.6 2.7 2.5 2.3 2.1 2.0 1.8 1.7 1.6 1.8 1.9 2.2 2.1 

Charnali 12 m. 3.9 4.4 3.4 2.8 2.4 2.0 2.0 2.3 2.3 2.7 3.7 3.8 3.0 

Papandiba 8 m. 7.5 6.5 4.6 4.6 4.2 4.0 3.6 3.7 4.3 6.3 6.7 7.9 5.3 

Keda 11 m. 1.0 1.0 1.4 1.6 1.6 1.6 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.0 0.9 0.8 1.2 

Khulo 11 m. 2.8 2.9 2.8 2.8 2.5 2.4 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 2.6 


Maximum wind velocity in m/s 

Maximum wind velocity based on multi-year observation data of Batumi, Keda and Khulo 

meteorological stations is given in table 12 below. 

Table 12. Maximum wind velocity 


Maximum wind velocity (m/s),reccurance (return time) 

stations 1 year 5 years 10 years 15 years 20 years 

Batumi 23 30 33 34 36 

Keda 16 20 22 23 24 

Khulo 14 18 20 22 24 

Source: Справочники по климату СССР, выпуск 14, Ленинград, изд. ,,гидрометеоиздат". 1970 г.(Table.#12)


It is mostly cloudy over the entire Ajara region all around the year with 60-65% of the sky 

on average being covered with clouds. Cloud cover increases in winter months (70-75%), as 

well as the number of cloudy days. There are 120-170 cloudy days on average, with 45-70 

days of the clear sky. 

Thunderstorms, hail and fog is frequent in the region. Thunderstorms occur all year round, 

with 1-day in winter and 3-8 days in summer on average, and 20-45 to a maximum of 70 

days annually. Like thunderstorms, hail can occur any time of the year. Hail drops are not 

large in size, hence causing no damage. Generally, the number of days with hail is relatively 

rare – 1 or 2 days per year, but in isolated cases, it can reach 12 days annually. 

1.2.3 Vegetation Cover 

Ajara vegetation is extremely diverse, which is defined by the varied natural environment of 

the region, as well as the complex history of the development of flora and fauna. Many 

researchers note that Ajara is most rich in relict flora. It houses the majority of species 

characteristic of Kolkheti flora. At the same time, there are relict species, which are endemic 

to Ajara region, such as Medvedev’s birch, Epigaea gaulterioides, etc. Kolkheti vegetation also 

consists of European mixed forest flora species. In Ajara, as well as in any mountainous area, 

the vegetation is of various vertical zoning. According to Ketskhoveli (1959) classification, 

there are several zones identified: 

Hydrophilic grassland and humid forests - 0-250m from sea-level; 

Kolkheti evergreen su-forests and alder forests 150-250m-450-500m; 

Medium mountainous zone with several sub-zones - 500m – 2000m; 

High-mountainous, sub-alpine and alpine zones 

These zones are characterized by diverse vegetation complexes, which are briefly described 

below. Ajara coastal lowland is a southern part of Kolkheti lowland. It is 2-5 km wide near 

Kobuleti, and gets even narrower towards south. Mountain front slopes run along the 

coastline. Precisely this part of Ajara is most precipitated. Precipitation permeates only the 

upper layers of the soil, due to high ground water levels. This is partly the reason for the lack 

or no drainage of precipitation from the ground surface. This and many other factors created 

the conditions for turning considerable part of Kolkheti lowland into marches. Ajara 

lowland, as well as the lowest part of Kolkheti lowland used to be covered by humid 

marshes, marsh grasses and sphagnum vegetation complexes. This type of vegetation is 

developed on the swampy meadow, peat and peat-derived, as well as marsh podzol soils. The 

most part of the territory, especially forested swamps have been dried out and tea plantations 

and other technical cultures have been grown instead. In the mentioned vegetation 

complex, the most territory was covered by forested swamps, however currently only limited


sections of them exist on this territory. Alnus barbatais most widespread in this type of 

forests, along with Pterocarya pterocarpa, while on relatively dryer sections – Carpinus 

caucasica and Quercus imeretina; in sub-forests, there are also rangulaalnus, Crataegus 

microphylla, Viburnum opulus and so on. In some places, especially where forests are sparse, 

blackberries and other lianas are widespread, such as Smilax excelsa, Periphloca graeca, Vitis 

sylvestris, Hedera colchicaand so on. 

Forest in Khulo District, Adjara 

Alder usually develops in the conditions of excess soil moisture; however it is less developed 

in the marshland. It also harbors herbaceous plants with the typical components of marsh 

vegetation, such as Imereti sedge, marsh iris, sedges, rush and so on. Over a limited area, 

fern, moss and mixed type of alder vegetation is developed, while rarely, but generally on 

relatively less moist areas – rhododendron alders. This type of alder is widespread in the 

forests of Ajara lowland and middle mountain forests, such as beech and hornbeam groves up 

to 1500 m from the sea-level. Sometimes in the upper line of its spread, it forms co-dominant 

cohabitations with mountain alder (Alnus incana). 

Before, Ajara lowland and foothill slopes harbored variety of deciduous forests. Currently, 

they remain only over small areas. Such forests are formed by hornbeam, Imeretian oak, ash- 

Fraxinus excelsior, hartvisi oak – Quercus hartvissiana, elm(Ulmus elliptica), lime (Tilia 

caucasica), persimmon (Diospyros lotus), occasionally beech, chestnut, etc. Such forests


usually have well-developed subforests, which are created by deciduous shrubs (Azalea - 

Rhododendron luteum, Caucasian buckthorn - Rhamnus imeretina, Large-leaved Spindle - 

Evonymus latifolia, Colchis bladdernut - Staphylea colchicaand St. pinnata, nuts - Corylus 

avellana, C. ponticaand so on), and sometimes by evergreen plants, such as holly- Ilex 

colchica, rhododendron - - Rhododendron ponticum, Spineless Butcher's Broom - Ruscus hypophyllum, 

and so on. In these forests, especially in lowland, liana plants, such as Colchis ivy, silk vine 

(Peripcola graeca)wild grape,(Vitis vinifera ssp. sylvestris),common medlar (Mespilus 

germanica),are also widespread. Where the forests are sparse, these plants are so overgrown 

that it is impossible to go through them. The described forests are mainly growing at 500m 

above the sea-level. The initial form of Colchic forests on Ajara territory is practically not 

preserved. They have been either cut out, or if still grown as a forest, it is a new growth, as in 

the western Georgia’s lowland, vegetation growth is relatively fast. Alder and hornbeam in 

this respect are most distinguished. Herbaceousflora of such forests, according to Ketskhoveli 

(1959) is quite diverse. Especially many are fern and various grasses. 

In Ajara there are no oak-forests comprised of Georgian oak species. Here it is substituted by 

Chorokhi oak - Quercus dschorochensis . Oak forests formed by the dominance of Chorokhi 

oak is widespread on the dry slopes of Adjaristskali and Chorokhi gorges. Most part of these 

oak forests has become very sparse, and as a rule is degraded by removing high quality 

productive trees. Due to lack of hay, the locals use marcescent leaves (desiccated leaves)for 

feeding cattle. In terms of growth pattern, these oak forests resemble Georgian oak forests 

typical of Kolkheti area, but according to Kolakovski (1961), its flora is also represented by 

xerophilic southwest Asian elements. These oak forest complex is also represented by 

mountain xerophilic oak forest fragments, composed, among others, of one of the species of 

tragacantic astrogalis. At middle mountain beltcome above the vegetation described, and 

according to Ketskoveli (1959) covers the territory between 500 m – 2150ms above the sealevel. 

In this belt there is a large variety of phytocenozes. It is caused by the massive variety 

of trees and shrubs, as well as diverse natural conditions and the effects of human 

agricultural activity. In this belt, beechgroves play a significant role landscape-wise, however 

as Dolukhanov (1957) notes, beechgroves are usually developed in the medium mountain 

belt, but less where precipitation is below 500mms. Main cenotype of this formation can be 

seen from the sea-level to sub-alpine belt, however, according to Gulisashvili (1955), 

beechgrove belt, where breech forms highly productive stands, is between (900) 1000 m- 

1500 (1600) mms above the sea-level, while according to Dolukhanov (1957), optimal 

development area of beechgroves is limited to 800-1300mms above the sea. This type of 

forest is characterized by the absolute supremacy of the main cenotype, with relative mix of 

hornbeam, Wych elm(Ulmus elliptica Koch)and chestnut, especially in the low mountain 

belt, as well as lime and so on. Beech often forms co-dominant phytocenosis with spruce and 

fir. In Ajara mountains evergreen subforestsbeech groves are widespread. Such beech groves 

are generally typical for Kolkheti and mainly associated with humid areas. Subforests are 

created by rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum), holly (Ilex colchica), cherry laurel


(Laurocerasus officinalis), somtimesRhododendron ungerniiand so on. Humid areas are also 

typical growth areas for fern beechgroves. This type of beechgroves harbour vegetation of 

ferns like - Matteuchia struchiopteris,Athyrium filix-femina, Driopteris filix-mas, 

sometimeshyllitis scolopendriumand so on. This latter can be seen in other types of 

beechgroves, however its share in phytocenosis is insignificant. In this type of beechgrove 

complexes, on relatively less moist slopes, shrubs of beechgroves are developed. In such 

forests sub-forests are formed by deciduous shrubs, such as azalea -(Rhododendron luteum), 

cranberry (Vaccinium arctostaphyllos), nuts (Corylus avellana), blackberry speciesand so on. 

In this type of beechgroves, herbaceous plants cohabitation is also well developed. This 

cohabitation and generally deciduous shrub beechgroves are usually rich in species compared 

to other types of beechgroves. 

Floristically, beechgroves of Festuca Montana and tall grassesare developed in diverse 

ecologic environment, however what they have in common is their indispensable role in the 

beech grove landscape of Ajara. In Ajara and generally in Western Georgia beechgroves are 

quite widespread. According to Kolakovski (1961), in such beech groves share of the other 

tree plants is insignificant, while other bush and grass type vegetation is practically nonexistent. 

In this type of beech groves, as noted by Dolukhanov (1938), most favourable 

conditions for beech growth are formed, and their growth is productive. Lianas are less 

frequent in such forests, though some of them, such as Colchic ivy, is a constant component 

of beech groves. In complex with beech groves, especially in the lower area of its spread, 

over relatively less moist slopes, there are also hornbeam groves at approximately 1100 m 

above the sea level. Mixture of beech and hornbeam groves can be seen at higher belts as 

well. It is developed in variety of edaphic conditions, e.g. in the lowland it grows on podzol, 

while in other cases – on humus-carbonate and mountain brown soils. Structurally and 

floristically hornbeam groves are similar to beech groves, and form similar forest types, 

though over relatively smaller areas. In Ajara, and generally in Western Georgia, hornbeam 

groves are often substituted by alder groves. This shift is mainly result of human agricultural 

activities – cutting of hornbeam groves are accompanied by intensive renewal of alder 

groves, and often, mixture of hornbeam and alder groves is formed. According to the existing 

data (Ketskhoveli, 1935, 1959; Dolukhanov, 1953; Kolakovski, 1961; Gulisashvili, 1964; 

Jorbenadze, 1969),in Ajara, and especially in beech and hornbeam groves, over relatively 

smaller areas are also occupied by chestnut groves. However, chestnut is relatively less 

represented in nearly all types of forests, which are developed on the front slopes of middle 

mountain belt. For this zone, Taxus baccata is usually more common, which often grows in 

forest understory. 

In Ajara mountainous areas coniferous forests are quite widespread at 900/1000 m - 2000 m 

above the sea level. However, pine groves are growing in much lower areas – on the 

southern lower slopes of Adjaristskali. Pine grove vegetation in Ajara is fragmented, and is 

created with the domination of Pinus kochiana. Pine grove canopy formed, that’s why


cenosis of bushes and grass plants is formed. Picea orientalis and Abies nordmanniana form 

closed forests, hence tires of bushes and grass are less represented. Such types of forests 

typologically are close to beech groves. Beech and Abies nordmanniana often form 

condominant cenosis. Such phytocenosis are quite widespread in Ajara mountainous areas. In 

terms of coniferous forest types, pure spruce groves, spruce and fir groves and pure fir groves 

are also represented. Such cenosis are mainly represented in the upper belt of the forests. 

In some groves of Ajara over 1000 m above the sea-level, special type of bushes are 

widespread, which locals call rhododendron. It was first described in detail by Golicin (1939, 

1948) and ever since the above name established itself in botanical literature. In this type of 

phytocenosis participate tertiary relict flora, such as: Laurocerasus officinalis, rhododendron, 

Betula medwedewi, Rhododendron ungernii, Quercus pontica, Epigaea gaulterioides, 

cranberries, Rhododendron flavum, Ilex colchica Pojark, Viburnum, Holand ruscus (Ruscus 

hypoglossum L.)and many others. Due to closed cover of the shrubbery grass cover is poorly 

developed, though fern is very widespread. 

This type of shrubbery is considered by Golitsin as endemic and relict phytocenosis, due to 

existence of tertiary relict species and especially that of Epigaea. At the same time, he 

disagrees with Sinskaya’s (1933) opinion that such shrubbery is of anthropogenic origin and 

developed on the place of the burned forests. However, Ketskhoveli agrees with Kinskaya’s 

view (1959) and notes that most of the species represented in the shrubbery are sub-forest 

elements, like Epigaea, which according to Shahskin (1930) is a typical representative of 

Lazistan beech groves. At the same time, Ketskhoveli (1959) indicates, that in Georgia 

rhododendron groves are found in Ajara-Imereti ridge, and Upper Svaneti – Nenskri, Nakras 

and other gorges. After the destruction of forests in these areas what remained was forest 

understory shrubbery and they grew strong enough to regenerate the main species of the 

forests. 

Following the forests described above is the sub-alpine belt: its upper boundaries are at 2200- 

2300 m above the sea level. In this belt there are meadows, shrubbery and sub-alpine forest 

complexes. In Ajara, like in the rest of Georgia’s mountainous areas there are two types of 

sub-alpine forests: relatively sparse and dwarfish forests. Sparse type forests in Ajara 

mountains are mainly formed by Acer trattvetteri, Betula litwinowii and so on. In these 

forests trees are growing remotely from each other and the space between them is covered 

by grass vegetation. Sub-alpine sparse forests in Ajara are rare and are mainly of secondary 

origin. In Ajara subalpine belt dwarf type forests are more widespread. They are usually well 

developed on the Northern and Southern slopes, and mainly in the areas where snow cover 

is deep and it stays longer. This type of forests is mainly created by Betula litwinowii, Sorbus 

Aucuparia, some variety of willow and so on.


Grass and shrubbery cenosis are well developed. The main component of the latter is 

Rhododendron caucasicum, while grass vegetation cenosis is mainly represented by tall grass 

species. Dwarf forest in Ajara and generally in Western Georgia is mainly formed by beech. 

The similar types of dwarf birch groves are also there, though more widespread aregrassy 

beechgroves, where live vegetation is created by the senosis of various grasses and fern 

species. Such beechgroves drastically differ from mid belt beech groves, so much that some 

researchers, e.g. Dolukhanov (1957) consider them being different formations. In Western 

Georgia, especially in Ajara and Guria dwarf forests are also formed by Betula 

medwedewii and Quercus pontica, though such forests are mainly found in the midmountain 

belt. This type of forests is also characterized by the cinosis of evergreen 

shrubbery, with the domination of Rhododendron caucasicum in sub-alpine belt, and in the 

lower belt – of Rhododendron ponticum, Laurocerasus officinalis, and so on. 

Major part of Ajara’s mountainous forests has been cut and on their place secondary 

meadows have developed. That is why in this part of Georgia, upper boundary of forests ends 

usually with fir groves and pine groves. Restoration of subalpine forests is necessary. Their 

agricultural value is undoubtedly significant, sincethese types of forests protect lower belt 

forests from avalanches and they have soil protection and water regime regulatory functions. 

In complex with sub-alpine forests, in the same alpine belt, especially in the northern and 

western slopes, rhododendron groves are widespread, mainly formed by Rhododendron 

caucasicum on mountainous peat soils. Typologically rhododendrons are relatively uniform 

and sparse in species, which is caused by their special kenotic structure. This floristic 

complex is comprised of: Vaccinium myrtillus, V. vitis-idaea, acetosella and many others, 

mosses and Cladonias, which, according to the existing data (Ketskhoveli 1935, Nizharadze 

1948; and so on) are derivatives from pine groves. 

Ajara mountains are also characterized by subalpinetall grasses, which is caused bythe 

existence of most convenient environment for the development and growth of the vegetation 

with moist humus-rich soils. This type of vegetation usually develops in the complex of 

subalpine forests and rhododendrons, as well as in the upper mountainous belt in the form of 

an independent cenosis. Tall grassesare quite often poly-dominant and consists of: Heracleum 

sosnowskyi, Campanula lactiflora, Delphinium flexuosum, Inula grandiflora, Doronicm 

macrophyllum, Senecio platyphyloides, Pyretrum macrophyllum, Aconitum nasutumand so 

on. Often such vegetation is mainly formed by dicotyledons or dicots, while monocotyledons 

or monocots, especially crops and sedges are extremely rare. That is why soil surface usually 

is not podzolized. 

Despite rich phyto-mass, tallgrassesare not fit for grazing or mowing, but it can be used for 

silage. From this point of view its agricultural value is significant. This type of tallgrass is rich 

in medicinal, technical and decorative plants. In the given belt subalpine meadows are more


widespread. This type of vegetation, and generally high mountain meadows, are 

typologically varied and rich in species. However due to extensive use as summer pastures 

and overloading, natural vegetation is altered and represented by species formed as a result of 

pastoral digression. On Arsiani ridge we can mainly find Nardus glabriculmis and Agrostis 

planifolia, as well as small grassy poly-dominant meadows represented by Alchemilla and 

other species. The forms described above are developed on the podzolized soils of mountainmeadow. 

On the moist slopes of Shavsheti and Ajara- Guria ridges there are quite developed 

grassy and ferny meadows. Over a relatively less area such meadows can be found on 

Arsisani ridge as well, mainly in complex with forests, along their upper boundaries. Such 

meadows are usually formed on secondary soils of podsolized meadows. 

1.2.4 Protected Areas 

1.2.4.1 Sanitary protection zones for drinking water supply systems and related regulations 

There are six water intakes in Chorokhi-Adjaristskali River Basin: Khorolistskli, 

Chakvistskali, Khelvachauri, Keda, Shuakhevi and Khulo. Of all drinking water sources, only 

two have sanitary zones meeting the regulatory requirements set out by the Georgian law. 

The rest of the water supply systems receive water from the nearest water sources, which are 

not protected at all. 

The largest drinking water supply system has sanitary protection zones at the water source 

that meet sanitary protection requirements of the Georgian legislation. More specifically, the 

zone is divided into three sub-zones which have specific protection regimes. 

1. First sub-zone (strict protection regime) covers the area, where there are water 

intakes, pipelines and other major structures of the drinking water supply system. The 

access of all persons, except for the operators and other technical staff is prohibited 

together with construction and location of administration or other types of buildings 

except for specific buildings necessary for operations of water supply system. 

2. Second sub-zone covers the territory that is adjacent to the water sources and their 

tributaries. Types of uses of this territory or water objects that may deteriorate water 

quantity and quality are prohibited in this area. 

3. Third sub-zone covers the territory that borders the second sub-zone and its poor 

condition may cause chemical contamination of the drinking water sources. The 

spatial contours of the third sub-zones depend on the local geography and land use 

patterns.


1.2.4.2 Areas designated for the protection of habitats and species 

Ajara protected areas (PAs) include: Mtirala National Park, Ispaani Reserve, Kobuleti Reserve 

and Kintrishi Reserve (Please see Annex 8). Mtirala National Park territory is distinguished 

with the rare variety of relict and endemic species. There are 310 wildlife species of 188 

types of 83 plant families. Among them, there are 67 relict and 27 endemic species, of which 

10 – Caucasian endemic, 10 – Colchic endemic, 4 – Georgian endemic, and 3 – Ajara-Laz 

endemic species. 15 woody plants represented over Mtirala National Park territory are 

included in the Red List of Georgia. Considerable part of the territory is covered by Colchic 

type of mixed deciduous forest phytocenosis with the domination of beech. Park territory 

houses 57 species of medicinal plants. Also included in Georgia’s Red list are lynx and Saker 

Falcon. PA’s fauna is represented by the following species from the red list of Georgia: brown 

bear, chamois,white-tailed eagle, Caucasian viper, Black Sea salmon and several species of 

insects; The list of species from the National Park’s fauna listed in the Red List of Georgia is 

given in the Table 13 below. 

Table 13. Red list of the National Park’s fauna 

Scientific Name Common Name IUCN- category National Status 

Mammals 

1 Rhinolophus euryale The Mediterranean 

VU* 

VU 

Horseshoe Bat 

2 Barbastella barbastellus The Barbastelle VU VU 

3 Sciurus anomalus The Caucasian squirrel VU VU 

4 Lynx lynx The Eurasian lynx CR* 

5 Ursus arctos The brown bear EN* 

6 Rupicapra rupicapra The chamois EN 

Birds 

7 Ciconia nigra The Black Stork VU 

8 Haliaeetus albicilla The White-tailed Eagle EN 

9 Accipiter brevipes The Levant Sparrowhawk VU 

10 Aquila clanga The Greater Spotted Eagle VU VU 

11 Falco cherrug The Saker Falcon CR CR 

12 Falco vespertinus The Red-footed Falcon EN 

Reptiles 

13 Vipera kaznakovi Caucasus viper EN EN 

Amphibians 

14 Mertensiella caucasica The Caucasian 

VU 

VU 

Salamander 

Fishes 

15 Salmo fario Lake trout VU 

Insects


16 Manduca atropos sfinqsi mkvdarTava EN 

17 Deilephila nerii Oleander hawk moth EN 

18 Callimorpha dominula The Scarlet Tiger Moth VU 

19 Parnassius apollo Apollo VU VU 

20 Parnassius nordmanni Caucasian Apollo EN 

21 Allancastria caucasica Caucasica Lederer VU VU 

22 Erebia hewistonii Iranian Lederer VU 

Circle worms 

23 Alollobophora kintrishiana Kintrishi earthworm EN 

Source: Directorate for Environment and Natural Resources of Ajara Autonomous Republic (DENR) 

*Note: VU – Vulnerable; CR – Critical; EN - Endangered 

Kobuleti Protected Area, Kobuleti State Reserve, and Kobuleti Managed Reserve are located 

on the territory of the Ajara Autonomous Republic. Beyond Kobuleti coastline levees and 

dunes, on the lowest part of the lowland there is unique sphagnum dominated rain-fed peat 

lands. Ispani II is untouched pericical sphagnum marshland of 331 hectares (while Spani I in 

the Managed Reserve – 439 hectares), where water loss occurs through evaporation. The bog 

has a blanket cover of 25-45 sm live sphagnum, which is never covered by water. Peat 

contains sphagnum and is not damaged; with small and big elastic forms it is permanently 

submerged in water. Vegetation of Ispani sphagnum bogs and its peripheral Colchic forests is 

also unique. It grows Kolkheti relict and endemic species, such as: Pterocarya 

pterocarpa,Imereti and Hartvisi oaks, and hornbeam; in sub-forests there are -Ruscus 

Hypophyllum, Ilex, box-Colchis, Colchis and yellow lily, insectivores drozera, royal fern, 

Calluna vulgaris, Laz and northern sedge.


Mertensiella caucasica 

In Kobuleti district, upstream and midstream of the river Kintrishi, 450-2000 m above the 

Sea Level is situated Kintrishi Reserve, which was founded in 1959. It is 13893 hectares, of 

which 12817 ha is forests, 200 ha – meadows, and 966 ha – reservoirs. Three are 1045 species 

preserved in the Reserve, of which 25 are rare species, 22 animal species, 104 bird species, 

and 6 species of fish. It is rich in Colchic forests, relict and endemic vegetation. Among them 

of special importance are Quercus pontic, Medvedev’s birch, Rhododendron Ungernii 

Trautv., Smirnov’s rhododendron, Pterocarya and so on. There are also chestnut forests. 

1.2.5 Geology and Geomorphology 

1.2.5.1 Geology 

In accordance with the geological zoning of Georgia, Chorokhi-Adjaristskali Basin belongs to 

the Ajara-Trialeti Folded System and is represented by extreme margins of the western part 

of the Abastumani-Boshuri Zone (E. Gamkrelidze, 2000).


The area of our interest consists of deposits of Upper and Middle Eocene, intrusive bodies 

associated with these deposits and alluvial marine deposits of the quaternary system 

(Holocene, Middle and Upper Pleistocene). 

Middle Eocene (P₂ 2 ) – sediments of this stage have the widest distribution and are 

represented by a series of sequential strata of thick (2-4.5 km) pyroclasts, their associated 

bodies and terrigenous sediments of very limited distribution. 

In accordance with paleontological materials, thick volcanogenic deposit consists of two 

stratigraphic layers. The border between these two layers is invisible and they can only be 

divided in accordance with lithologic features. With this regard, there are four rockstratigraphic 

units, known as formations. In different geographic areas the names of these 

formations vary. However, in order to avoid any confusions, scientists call them as a,b,c and 

d stratigraphic units. 

Lower (First) formation of Middle EoceneP2 2a – outcrops of this formation are found and 

mapped in the basins of the rivers Korolistsksali and Kintrishi as well as in the basin of the 

river Tivnara and its tributaries. It is represented by thin and medium thickness sequences of 

basalt, andesite-basalt tuffs, tuffy sandstones, tuffy argillites and argillites. 

These deposits are the continuations of Paleocene-Lower Eocene terrigenous flysch 

sediments located below the P2 2a . In the upper layers they are replaced by volcanogenic 

rocks. 

With its facies, the first formation of the Middle Eocene (a) is clearly divided into three small 

sub-formations. Of these, the lowest one is represented by the sequences of thin deposits 

(0.02-0.15m thickness) of pelitic and aleuritic tuffs with basalt composition and tuffaceous 

sandstones. The overall thickness thickness of the section varies from 150 to 200 m. The 

middle section is represented by the sequence of thick and medium thickness deposits of tuff 

sandstones and psammitic-pelitic and basaltic andesite tuffs. The thickness of the layer is 

300-500m. 

The upper part is represented by similar rocks. The only difference is the presence of thick 

layers (200-250m) of tuffs (“spotted sandstones”). Thus, the overall thickness of the first 

formation of the Middle Eocene (a) is 650-1000 meters. 

Middle (second) formation of Middle Eocene (P2 2b ).The outcrops of this formation are met in 

the basins of the rivers Adjaristskali, Kintrishi, Akavrta and their tributaries. In terms of 

composition of facies, the formation is divided into two sub-formations. The lower sections 

are represented by patterns of sub-alkali andesite-basalt psammitic tuffs of high and medium 

density, andesite-dacite tuffs and tufaceous sandstones. Given sediments are weakly adhered


with each other and create soft relief. The upper section of the formation is composed of 

sequential layers of basalt, andesite-dacite, deliriteand pseffitic-psammitic tuffs. Given rocks 

are of high density and create rocky relief (Meskheti range and its surroundings). The total 

thickness of three stratigraphic units in some sections varies within 800-850 m range and in 

other sections - within 750-2,500 m range. 

Third formation of the Middle Eocene P2 2c – consists of upper parts of sequentially located 

various formations and, tuff-breccia and Kintrishi formations. More specifically, the above 

formation is composed of sequences of massifs and high density rocks of sub-alkali and 

rarely, carbonate-alkali basalt and andesite-basalt composition. Furthermore, aleurite and 

psammitic tuffs of the same composition as well as basalt rocks are also met there. All listed 

layers are met in the basins of the river Charnali, Chorokhi, Matchakhela, Adjaristskali, 

Akavreta and others. The total thickness of the sediments varies from 0 to 2,000 m. 

Fourth (Upper) formation of the Middle Eocene P2 2d - consists of the upper sections of 

Chidili and Makhuntseti formations. The formation’s diversity is caused by lithologic 

diversity. For instance, in Kintrishi and Kheva gorges it is represented by olivian basalts, 

trachyte basalts, trachyte tuffs ad rarely, by marls. The total thickness of these sediments 

varies from 1000 to 2,500 m. In the basin of the river Adjaristskali (in the vicinity of villages 

Makhuntseti and Kokotauri), this stratum is called as Makhuntseti formation and is 

composed of sheets of large-sized granular tuff sandstones, andesite-dacite and delenite tuffs 

and the strata of the same composition. The overall thickness of the formation is 0-1,000m. 

Upper Eocene P2 3 – sediments of this stage are distinguished with high diversity of facies and 

are met in the village Gorjomi and watersheds of the rivers Chvana, Skhalta, Chirukhistskali 

and Adjaristskali. They are composed of vulcanogenic-terrigenous sedimentary roks. The 

facies are represented by sequences of aleurolites, aleurolite sandstones and marl shales. 

These sediments are rich in plant fossils. The thickness of the sediments is 150-300m. The 

total thickness of the sediments of Upper Eocene makes up 510-1,000m. In Ajara and Adigeni 

they have different names, but in fact represent the same formation. The total thickness of 

sediments is 1,600-3,000m. 

Quaternary system (Q) – The deposits of this system are composed of sediments of lower, 

middle, upper and recent Quaternary stages. They are formed of marine, marine-continental 

and continental sediments, widespread on the Black Sea coastal zone as well as in the basins 

of major rivers and their tributaries. The age of sediments varies from lower to upper and 

recent Quaternary periods and are represented by marine, riverine, deluvial-proluvial and 

and other sediments. 

Middle Quaternary stage (mQII)-Deposits of this stage are represented by marine sediments 

met only in the coastal zone of the Black Sea. They are composed of carbonate and noncarbonate 

clays and interbeds of weakly cemented or un-cemented sandstones.Visible


thickness of the sediments is 40-50 m, invisible (boreholes) – 100-120 m. Fossil fauna is met 

there. 

Upper Quaternary stage (mQIII) – These deposits continue middle Quaternary marine 

formations and are represented by marine-alluvial section. They are composed of sands with 

different size grains, loam and rarely carbonate clays and bench gravel. The overall thickness 

of the stratum is 10-40 m. These sediments are met near the village Chakvi, city of Batumi, in 

the southern part of Makhinjauri and in the eastern part of Kobuleti. In general, as it was 

mentioned above, this formation is composed of sands, clays and conglomerates with 

interbeds of coarse rocks cemented by sand. 

Recent Quaternary (Holocene) stage (QIV) - The deposits of this stage are found in the coastal 

zone of the Black Sea and its surroundings, river gorges and foothills. More specifically, they 

are represented by: i) recent marine sediments (m) composed of clays and sandstones on river 

terraces; ii) marine-lake sediments (ml) composed of clay and peat layers; iii) riverine 

sediments (a) composed of sand and gravel covered with clay; iv) alluvial-proluvial 

sediments (pd) composed of blocks and clay layers; v) proluvial-deluvial (pd) and other 

similar sediments. 

The overall thickness of the Quaternary deposits varies from 1 to 200 m (Vejini water deposit 

area). 

Intrusive Bodies - There are a number of autonomous outcrops and intrusive bodies detected 

through gravity magnetometric method. These are vein like bodies of igneous rocks, 

represented by intrusive bodies of various forms. Large size intrusive bodies are accompanied 

by apophises and small veins. Outcrops of magma veins are met in areas between Batumi and 

Sarphi. These are very small size three independent outcrops, with total area ranging 

between 0.01 and 0.2 km 2 . The largest is the Charnali intrusive body composed of 

anarthoclase, oligoclase-labradorites, plagioclase, biotites, amphibolites, pyroxen and other 

minerals. Other two small-size intrusive bodies are met in the north-east of the municipal 

center of the Khelvachauri district. They are intruded in the volcanic deposits of middle 

Eocene stage and are composed of metasomatities of 0.1-0.3 m thickness. The texture is 

formed of quartz sienite-diorites, plagioclase, potassium feldspar, quartz and biotites. 

Keda Intrusive body– is located in the southeast of the Keda district. It is represented as a 

layer. Its total area is 0.05 km 2 , is composed of crystals of gabbroids made of medium and 

large size grains and is weakly weathered. Following minerals participate in its formation: 

labradorite plagioclase, potassium feldspar, olivene and the secondary minerals. 

Merisi Intrusive body– is located in the village Merisi, Keda district. The village is situated in 

the basin of the river Akavereta, left tributary of the river Adjaristskali. It has sub-elypse 

forms are latidudally prolonged and directed from the village Octomberi to the village


Silibauri. Its total area is 0.7 km 2 . It is composed of syenite-diorites, grano-sienites, 

monsonites and other structural varieties. The given intrusive is relatively transformed 

compared to other bodies, particularly along the falts. Here it is clayfied and seritized. 

Namonastrevi Intrusive body– is located in the village Namonastrevi, Tiknara river basin. Its 

total area is4.56 km 2 and is composed of biotite syenite-diorites, gabbro-monsonites and 

other petrographic-structural varieties. Adjacent to the Namonastrevi intrusive the Khalati 

intrusive is met with total area of 2.4 km 2 and Satevzia intrusive with total area of 0.45km 2 

are met. They have almost the same composition as the Namonastrevi intrusive. 

1.2.5.2 Geo-morphology 

Geomorphologically, Ajara belongs to Ajara-Trialeti Folded System and is directly associated 

with large morpho-structures formed by recent tectonic movements, volcanic eruptions and 

erosive-denudative processes. Major morpho-structural ridges of various heights and 

orientations and their numerous branches, deep narrow canyons, depressions, hills and 

denudative-accumulative plains with numerous exo-microforms create diverse mosaics in 

the region’s geo-morphological landscape. 

The high energy potential of the region’s relief and the intensity of exogenic processes are 

directly linked to the recent tectonic motions and transformations in erosion surface, where 

river gorges and sinking (sub-duction) zones have been undergoing intensive vertical 

deformations since Late Neocene. It should be noted that these motions are intermittent and 

non-uniform (differentiated). The clear evidence for this is the presence of flat undulated 

denudation surfaces, terrace stairs and strong accumulation plains. Other solid evidence is 

the presence of alluvial sediments of 60m and larger thickness in the beds of the rivers 

Adjaristskali and Chorokhi. Specifically, near village Vakhuntesti the thickness of the 

alluvial sediments of the river Adjaristskali is 48 m and that of the river Chorokhi near 

village Muratlissi – 53 m. The height of the layer is 69 m. 

The amplitude of the Ajara-Trialeti uplifting zone reaches 2000-2500m in the western part of 

the Ajara-Imereti (same as Meskheti) ridge, cut abruptly by the Black Sea depression (same as 

Rioni inter-mountain depression). The highest flat relict surfaces of Miocene series are met at 

the altitude of 2150-2700 m. Four rows of younger flat surfaces are met at lower absolute 

altitudes. 

Ajara-Imereti uplifting zone to the east is bordered with narrow Tsalka-Akhalkalaki sinking 

zone (so-called southern sub-zone), whose western margin is a part of the subduction slab of 

the Adjaristskali basin, having sub-meridian orientation. Its direction does not coincide 

with the orientation of the folds and completely encompasses river Adjaristskali gorge. The 

formation of the slab has been ongoing since Oligocene-Miocene. It is sunk in the west and is


open towards the Black Sea, where it is overlaid by the wide and deep subducted mouth of 

the river Chorokhi. 

In the surroundings of the Goderdzi pass the basement of the slab is uplifted at the maximum 

altitude reaching 1,500 m in height, while to the east it is sunk and merged with Akhaltsikhe 

depression. 

Adjaristskali tectonic slab from the south is bordered with Lazistan and Shavsheti tectonic 

uplifts, which intersect each other by the antecedent gorge of the river Chorokhi in the 

Borchkha-Adjaristskali section. Here the depth of the vertical abrasion is 1,500-2,000 m. The 

amplitude of the recent uplifting is 2,500-2,800 m. 

The average velocity of the vertical movements is measured in some places and extrapolated 

based on historic seismic records. It makes up 2 mm annually for Ajara-Trialeti western part, 

which accelerates and reaches 3 mm annually at the pick. Similar processes are ongoing in 

the Gonio-Sarphi section and the remaining eastern part of Ajara. The sinking of the Ajara 

slab is ongoing with an average velocity of 1.33 mm/y, which is decreased at the mouth of 

the river Chorophi making up 0.8 mm/y. 

Thus, the major morphological units of Ajara region are as follows: Major ridges of Ajara- 

Mereti (same as Meskheti), Arsiani and Shavsheti, river Adjaristskali depression and 

Kakhaberi delta-accumulative plain. 

The northern slope of the Ajara-Imereti asymmetric ridge is much wider than the southern 

slope that abruptly falls in the river Adjaristskali gorge. At the same time, the slope located 

between the coastal zone and foothills together with its morphostructurally distinctive 

branches (Ajara-Guria, Kobuleti and Chakvi ridges) is gradually lowered and transformed 

into the hilly relief. In this zone, both Chaudinian and Black Sea marine terrace stairs (same 

as step terraces) are met from place to place. 

Overall, northwest and southern slopes of the ridge forming medium and high mountainous 

erosive-denudation relief are fragmented by a dense hydrologic network. The average ratio 

of the fragmentation is 2.02-2.24 km/km 2 . The overall fall of the river beds varies within 780- 

1000 m range and, average inclination - within 32-52.6%. 

A distinctive morphological feature of the mountainous Ajara is a widely open fan of the 

hydrological network confined with Ajara-Imereti, Arsiani, Shavsheti and East Pontid ridges. 

Geo-morphologically, it is formed as an inter-mountainous depression. The folded structure 

of the rocks creates a wide sincline of the Ajara-Shavsheti, whose axis coincides with the 

gorge of the river Adjaristskali. It is characterized by asymmetric forms and typical middlemountain 

relief. It is open in the north-east part towards the southeast direction, gradually 

narrowing down reaching 10-km in widthat the mouth of the river Chorokhi. The absolute 

altitude of the river beds varies within 100-1000 m and that of the picks – within 2000-2,700


m. The depression is divided by up to 1000 rivers of different rank, whose total length is 

2,165 km. The average ratio of the fragmentation is 1.41km/km 2 . The majority of rivers is 

formed on the slopes of the depression and creates fan-like fragments on the north and west 

expositions of the Arsiani ridge. 

Kakhaberi and Kobuleti inter-mountainous accumulation plains are also distinctive geomorphological 

structures that are composed of riverine-marine sediments exceeding 300m in 

thickness on the Khakhaberi valley and reaching 140m in Kobuleti. 

Kobuleti plain from the south is confined by Tsikhidziri volcanic cliff and, from the north – 

by river Natanebi. The deformation of the plate has been ongoing since the late Holocene. 

The current rate of the sub-duction is 2 mm/y (Janjgava, 1979). This sinking process has been 

accompanied by the Quaternary transgressions and accumulation of strong marine and 

riverine sediments, overlaying both Chaudinian molasses and Middle Eocene volcanogenic 

rocks. This un-differentiated (uniform) formation is composed of gravel, sand and clay lenses. 

It should be noted that petrographically, riverine sediments along with Eocene volcanogenic 

rocks are represented by sediments of Artvini formation clearly indicating on that fact that 

in Pleistocene and Holocene periods Chorokhi sediments were reaching the Natanebi river 

mouth. 

In Kobuleti structural block, former marine embayment follows the coastal zone in a 10-km 

distance. Average width is 250-300 m and the height – 7-12m. It represents a relict of the 

Phanagorian Regression (Egrissic phase, Tsereteli) composed of sand and gravel sediments of 

0-19.8m thickness. The layer of cobbles of the the coastal zone, petrographically composed of 

porphyries, tuff-sandstones, tuffs and granodiorites, gradually narrows down towards the 

north and disappears completely in the mouth of the river Natanebi. This clearly indicates on 

the elimination of sediment flows. 

Kakhaberi fluvial plain belongs to the Chorokhi-Batumi structural complex (block), which 

had been subducting during entire Quaternary period. The current rate of the sinking is 

0.88mm near the city of Batumi and 1.3 mm in Chorokhi delta area. The differentiated 

morphogenesis of the structural block has resulted in intensive sediment accumulation and 

formation of Kakhaberi large accumulation valley composed of strong alluvial-marine 

sediments with different facies. The nature of these sediments with distinct facialgranulometric 

textures indicate on frequent change in Chorokhi river regime in the Black 

Sea hydrodynamic cycle. 

Thus, the formation of the primary morphostrucutral units of Ajara relief is preconditioned 

by active differentiated neotectonic movements and different level of susceptibility of the 

sediments to erosion-denudation processes. The development of distinct landscapes and 

climate belts is attributed to such factors.


The diversity of exogenous factors for the development of regional relief is reflected in the 

region’s morphographic peculiarities. Determining of quantitative and qualitative parameters 

for such peculiarities is of high practical and scientific importance. The region’s 

morphography is characterized by high mosaics of the relief, which includes surfaces with 

diverse inclinations and heights (plains – up to 3 0 inclination, slightly inclined surface – 3-8 0 , 

weakly inclined surface – 8-15 0 , moderately inclined surface – 15-25 0 and sharply inclined 

surface – 45-65 0 ). Percentage share of reliefs with these classifications in overall landscape 

diversity is as follows: i) surfaces with up to 3 0 slope – 1,257 km 2 (43.34%); ii) surfaces with 

3-8 0 slope _ 133 km 2 (4.6%); iii) surfaces with 8-15 0 slope _ 173km 2 (5.96%); iv) surfaces with 

15-25 0 slope - 676km 2 (23.13%); v) surfaces with 25-35 0 slope – 312km 2 (10.76%); vi) 

surfaces with 35-45 0 slope – 213 km 2 (7.34%); vii) surfaces with 45-65 0 slope – 87km 2 (31%); 

surfaces with more than 65 0 slope – 61km 2 (2.10%). The genesis of flattened surfaces located 

at different altitudes (pediment, pediplain, etc.) is different. 

1.2.6 Geo-dynamic Processes: Landslides, Mudflows and Rockfall 

Ajara region with its authentic natural landscape is one of the unique ones in Georgia. It 

encompasses the entire spectrum of landscape and geographic environment starting from the 

coastline and ending with the alpine zone, which creates the most favorable conditions for 

the development of tourism, agriculture and resorts. However, the development is hampered 

by extreme natural calamities (erosive-abrasive events, landslides, mudflows, rockfall, 

avalanches) and geo-ecologic conditions leading to emergencies. 

This is precisely the reason why the protection of the Ajara population from geologic 

calamities, retention of arable land and ensuring safety of engineering installations has 

become the key condition for the sustainable development of the region. 

Ajara has a long history of natural geologic processes resulting from the variability of a wide 

spectrum of anthropogenic and natural factors. (Please see Annex 6) 

The high energy potential of the relief – intensive segmentation, steep slopes (within the belt 

of 30-50% and more) and formation of its primary morphostructural units is a result of active 

shifts at geotectonic stage and as well, differed susceptibility to erosion-denudation of major 

rocks. Active development of current exogenic processes fully encompasses middle Eocene, 

and upper moisten volcano – Pliocene, lower continental, and cover (slope) sediments. 

Lithological and geochemical composition of slope sediments, engineering-geologic 

peculiarities and spatial spread fully depends on tectonic disorder of basic rocks, location 

relief and climatic conditions.


Landslide near Shuakhevi 

Two main engineering- geologic complexes are distinguished based on morphologic 

processes of slope sediments: 1. mountainous eluvial-deluvial clay rocks, and 2. hilly area 

laterites at 450-600m above the sea-level. The existence of such zones often causes rockfall 

and mountain slides in many areas of Batumi-Akhaltsikhe highway, on the slopes of the river 

Mskhalta, Akavreta, Chirukha gorges, and Goderdzi Pass. 

Slope sedimentation play significant role in the widespread and complex development of 

climatic (consistent) landslides and mudflows. They are especially large-scale and powerful 

over the even surface areas of mountainous Ajara, and their dynamics is defined by the 

amount of water contained in the slopes and velocityy conversion of physical characteristics 

of rocks. In such cases, relief morphology creates favourable conditions for the development 

of groundwater, which in its turn causes rapid deterioration of physical qualities of rocks 

resulting in landslides or intensification of the existing ones. Clay slope sedimentation 

usually causes the following types of landslides: sliding, sliding-plastic, plastic, plasticflowing, 

flowing. 

Climatogenic landslides are developed in the densely populated areas close to hill zones, 

where weak lateral sedimentation is frequent and it is relatively easier to implement antilandslide 

measures.


Collision of Ajara young folds mountain belts with Javakheti region of high seismic activity 

results in frequent high intensity earthquakes and intensive development of landslidegravitation 

processes. 

Creation or re-activation of landslides on the territory of Ajara region is mainly caused by 

the earthquakes of transit character. 1988 earthquake in Armenia intensified mountain slide 

in the Skalta River valley, which prompted mountain slide of 20 million m³ and buried the 

most part of the village Tsablana. 

Intensification of exogenic processes in Ajara region is also defined by its diverse climate. 

Climatic conditions cause formation of strong lateral denudation crust in the region; as well 

as the typical erosion in low and medium mountain belt, and glacial-denudation in high 

mountain belt. 

In the current condition of extremely developed landslides and mudflows, decisive role is 

played by abnormally high precipitation, which in separate years exceeds average annual 

rainfall by 200-700 mm, as often as every 3-4 years. 

The following types of landslides are typical to Ajara region: consistent, sliding, slidingplastic, 

plastic-flowing, gravitational. Such landslides are frequent in the villages of Tsablana, 

Gorjomi, Dnaispareuli, Chanchkalo, Iakobadzeebi, Stepanishvilebi, Paksadzeebi, Geladzeebi 

and Chao (Khulo District), as well as Tsinareti, Venrebi, Bazaleti, Akhaldaba (Shuakhevi 

District), Octomberi, Gobroneti, Vedzibni, Namonastrevi (Keda District). 

As a result of geologic works carried out in 1980-2005 it was concluded, that 4700 hectares of 

land in Ajara was considerably damaged and in catastrophic condition, while 5000 hectares 

was under high risk of potential natural calamities. In various years geologic processes have 

damaged 120.7 km of highways and 55 bridges in Ajara region, as well as 177.2 km long river 

sides were washed away, 818 cases of mudflows, 1200 cases of landslides and mountain 

slides. 

The table below gives the list of settlements and engineering installations affected by natural 

calamities on the Ajara territory. 

Table 14. Number of natural disasters affecting human settlements and engineering installations in Ajara 

Observation Landslide, Transformation Washed away Settlements Highways (km) 

years 

mountain slide of high intensity river sides (km) 

communications 

mudflows 

Prior to 1990 379 _ Roads 

1982 368 175 

1983-86 142 34 39.9 35 Roads 12.6, 

Bridges - 9 

1987-88 43 112 20.4 176 Roads 16, 

Bridges - 5 

1989-91 72 10 181 60 Roads 26.5,


Bridges - 3 

1992-95 75 10 44.1 63 Roads 19.4, 

Bridges - 13 

1996 112 2 15.2 _ Roads 8.3, 

Bridges - 2 

1997-98 101 136 20.9 117 Roads 10.9, 

Bridges - 7 

2004-05 241 332 18.6 230 Roads 27, 

Bridges - 16 

Total 1229 817 177.2 738 Roads 120.7, 

Bridges 55 

Especially intensive (0.5-0.7 km damaged area per sq.km.). and widespread is the damage in 

in the upper section of the river Adjariskhali basin and the sources of the river Skhalta. 

Small-scale surface landslides are widespread in hilly belt characterized by lateral spread. 

Landslide processes are the least common in lower and middle mountain belt of Keda 

district. The least number of landslides has been recorded in the front slope mountain areas 

of Khelvachauri. 

Geodynamics of Coastline 

Ajara coastline 60 km section represents an unsteady morpho-dynamic system, which greatly 

influences engineering-geological conditions of densely populated settlements and 

intensively utilized coastline. 

The coastline is of asymmetric shape. It is pointed from South-West to North-East and 

complicated by the Chorokhi River, Mtsvane Kontskhi and Tsikhisdziri areas protruding into 

the sea. According to geo-morphologic, hydro-geologic and other conditions, it is divided 

into Kobuleti-Tsikhisdziri and Batumi-Chorokhi main areas. 

Both above-mentioned capes are abrasive, but washout velocity is minimal thanks to high 

strength and stability of Eocene volcanic rocks. Overall, the shoreline between the capes is 

abrasive, and the existing space is subject to intensive washout, that is why wave dissipating 

engineering installations and under water concrete cubes are used for protecting the shore. 

Chorokhi-Batumi area, which is permanently subducted, fully covers the Kakhaberi lowland 

and theChorokhi River delta. 

Kakhaberi lowland is built by strong complex of alluvium sea sedimentation, while narrow 

shoreline – with fine pebble gravels. 

The Chorokhi River solid deposits play key role in the formation of the shoreline. It 

amounted to 18mln/tonnes annually and was mainly settling from the fore slope to inner 

coastline, north to estuary.


Drastic reduction of the shoreline is being observed in the areas of the village Adlia, Batumi 

and in the direction of Makhinjauri. 

The seashore is subject to catastrophic washout on the territory of the village Adlia. Batumi 

airport and the territory nearby observatory are the most vulnerable. The average washout 

rate is 40-45 meters per year on the territory of the village Adlia. Such velocity of the 

washout is caused by morphological configuration and wave regime of the shore. 

Relatively stable is coastline dynamics of the Makhinjauri sub - area. As a result of artificial 

dumping of inert materials for fortification purposes and partially thanks to inert materials 

collected by the rivers Korolistskali and Bartskhana, shoreline washout along Makhinjauri 

coastline is insignificant and constitutes 1-2 meters annually. 

It is noteworthy that due to hydro power plants which started operating on the territory of 

Turkey, solid sedimentation build-up from the Chorokhi River has practically ceased. 

Currently, to limit the washout of Batumi shoreline (Boulevard) and retention of the beach, 

130000m 3 of materials are being transported annually for fortifying the beach. 

1.3 Hydrologic Characteristics of the Pilot Basin 

The current shape of relief and its paleo-dynamic nature of development significantly define 

groundwater spread intensity, genetic characteristics and dynamics, which is reflected in 

rich surface water resources of the basin consisting of the rivers Chorokhi, Machakhela, 

Adjaristskali, Skhalta, Chirukhistskali, Korolistskali, Chakvistskali, Kintrishi and Achkva. 

Brief hydrographic description of these rivers is given below. (Please see Annex 2) 

Chorokhi River (Choruk-Nekhr) is one of the major rivers of the Black Sea East coast. It 

takes origin in Tku-Badagi mountain in Turkey, 20 km South-West mountain Ispir, at 2700 

m above the sea level and flows into the Black Sea on the territory of Georgia 6 km South- 

West Batumi. 

The river is 438 km long, while watershed area is 22065.4 km 2 . 26 km long lower reaches of 

the river flow on the territory of Georgia. In this section of the river average fall is 780 m, 

while average inclination –30 0 . Three main tributaries join the river on the territory of 

Georgia: Machakhelistskali (37 km long), Adjaristskali (90 km) and Charnali (13 km). 

Watershed area of the Chorokhi River on the territory of Georgia is 1804.8 km 2 . 

The basin has mountainous topography. It consists of the northern slopes of the Shavsheti 

ridge , western slopes of the Arsiani ridge from the West and southern slopes of the Ajara- 

Imereti ridge. 10 km long lower section of the basin is situated on Kakhaberi lowland.


Mountainous part of the basin slopes are divided by deep gorges of Machakhelastskali and 

Adjaristskali tributaries. 

Geologiccally the basin is comprised oftuffs, clay shales and young andesite-basalt lavas.. 

Vegetation is mainly represented by deciduous and coniferous forests, while Kakhabery 

lowland is used for agricultural cultures. 

Chorokhi river 

The river gorge from Georgia-Turkish border to the village of Erge is of V-shape. Bottom of 

the river does not exceed 100-200 m. The section of the river from the village of Erge to 

Khelvachauri considerably widens and assumes cube shape with a wide bottom (0,3-0,8 km). 

Below Khelvachauri, over Kakhaberi lowland, the river shape turns trapezoidal (bottom 

width – 1,0 – 1,5 km), while it is poorly distinguished near the estuary. 

The river bed from the state border to the village of Kapandiba is moderately meandering 

and branches out into 2-3 branches. Below the village of Kapandiba, it becomes intensively 

meandering with multiple branches. Isles created between the river branches varies from 20- 

100 m in width and 100-300 metres in length. They are partly covered with vegetation and 

grass. Sections of turbulent and slow flow of the river interchange in every 500 m. On the


territory of Kakhaberi lowland the river bed is very deformed and the river often changes its 

flow. 

Tributary width varies from 50 m (near the village of Maradidi) to 120 m (near the village of 

Makho), depth 1,5 m -4,9 m, while velocity from 0.7 m/s – 2,5 m/s. Tributary bottom is made 

of stone and gravel. The sources of the river are snow, rain and groundwater. The river has 

high water flow in spring and floods are frequent in autumn, while it has a low flow periods 

in summer and winter seasons. Spring flooding starts in early March, reaches a maximum in 

May and ends late July. In August and September the river has a low flow, but occasionally it 

is flooding 4-5 times as a result of heavy rainfall. Heavy rainfalls also cause floods in 

autumnoften exceeding the spring floods. Occasionally, summer floods coincide with the 

flooding caused by intensive rains, which result in catastrophic increase in water level. By 

the end of November the winter low flow period starts, which lasts till March of the 

following year. 45% of the annual runoff is generated in spring (March-May), 25% - summer 

(June – August), 17% - autumn (September- November) and 13% - winter (December – 

February). 

Multi-year average runoff of the Chorokhi River at Erge gauging site, where the catchment 

area equals 22,000km 2 , is 272 m 3 /sec, maximum runoff – 3,840 m 3 /sec (recorded on 8 May, 

1942) and minimum runoff – 44.4 m 3 /sec (recorded on 12 August, 1955). River turbidity 

varies between 3,700 and 110,000 g/m 3 during floods and flash floods. The maximum 

sediment flow is recorded in May and makes up 3,100 kg/sec, while the minimum sediment 

flow is recorded in September and makes up 3.0 kg/sec. Ice formation is a very short-term 

phenomenon. The river Chorokhi is not used for irrigation. 

Machakhela River, one of the major tributaries of the river Chorokhi originates in Turkey, at 

the altitude of 2620 m a.s.l. as a result of convergence of several springs located on the south 

slope of the mount Mereta (2,662.7 m a.s.l.). It joins river Chorokhi from the right side near 

the village Machakhevispiri. 

Total length of the river is 37 km and catchment area – 369 km 2 .The upper course of the 

river is located in Turkey, while middle and lower courses with a total length of 21km – in 

Georgia.The major tributary of the Machakhela River on the territory of Georgia is Skurdidi 

River (11 km in length). Other tributaries are no longer than 5-6 km. In the Georgian section 

of the basin, the catchment area is 114.9 km 2 . 

The basin’s relief is mountainous and is characterized by clear contours. From place to place 

the height of picks reaches 800-1,000 m above river beds. Steep slopes of the watersheds are 

heavily fragmented by deep gorges of river branches. Major rocks are covered with 

mountain-meadow yellowish-brown leached soils. In the river basin, above the altitude of 

2,000-2,200 m alpine grassy biomes are met and below this belt – mixed forests. The lower 

course of the basin is represented by orchards and arable lands.


The river gorge is V-shaped. The width of the gorge is 60-130 m. The slopes of the gorge 

merge with adjustment ridges. A floodplain is only met at the river mouth. Its length is 5-6 

km, width – 40-50m and, height – 0.5-1 m. During the flash floods the flood plain is 

inundated with 0.3-1m water. 

The river bed in a distance of 1.5-2.0 km from the national border is branched and forms 10- 

m wide and 20-m long pebble islands. The width of the river varies between 10 and 18 m, 

depth – between 0.4 to 0.8 m and the flow velocity – between 2.5 to 0.5-08 m/sec. The 

bottom of the river is uneven, covered with large boulders. River banks are composed of 

non-compact gravel and from place to place are cliffy. 

The river is fed by snow, rain and ground waters. The water regime is characterized by 

spring floods, fall flashfloods, unstable summer low flow and stable winter law flow periods. 

Spring runoff contributes 35% to the annual water flow, summer runoff – 18%, fall runoff – 

28% and winter runoff – 19%. At the Sindieti gauging site, where the catchment area is 365 

km2, multi-year average river runoff is recorded at 21.2 m3/sec. At the same site, maximum 

runoff was recorded on 12 September 1962 and amounted to 430 m3/sec, while the minimum 

runoff was recorded on 10 February 1950 and amounted to 1.5 m3/sec. During floods and 

flashfloods the river turbidity varies between 65 and 2000 g/m3, the maximum sediment 

runoff is recorded in November and amounts to 140 kg/sec, while the minimum runoff is 

recorded in April and amounts 0.70 kg/sec. 

River water is clean, transparent and potable during low waters. No ice phenomenon is 

recorded on the river. The river is used for hydropower generation and for water mills. It is 

not used for irrigation. In the past, there were two small-scale local canals watering 3 ha 

collective farm lands of Chkhutuneti and Keda. 

The Adjaristskali River originates at the 2,435 m, on the western exposition of the northern 

part of the Arsiani ridge, to the east of the mount Chanchakhi (2,506.7 m) within 1 km 

distance from it. It flows into the Chorokhi River from the right side, downstream of the 

village Keda within 1 km distance from it. Total length of the river is 90 km, overall fall 

2,397 m, average slope 26.6 0 , total catchment – 1,540 km 2 , average altitude – 1,400 m. The 

hydrographic network of the the river basin is composed of 988 rivers with a total length of 

2,165 km. Major tributaries are Satsikhur (14 km), Skhalta (29 km), Chikhuristskali (32 km), 

Chanistskali (21 km) and Akavtreta (19 km). 

The borders of the river basin follow the water divides of the ridges of Chakvi, Ajara-Imereti, 

Arsiani and Shavsheti. The relief is mountainous and very fragmented, the altitude of the 

water divides exceeds 1,500-2,000 m. The basin geologically is composed of tuffs, sandstones 

and clay-shales. Young andesite-basalt lava is also met from place to place. Mountainous 

forest podsolised clay soils dominate within the basin. The largest area of the basin is covered


with dense mixed forests, which at the tops of the water divides transform into alpine grassy 

meadows. 

The river gorge is V-shaped. The width of the river bed varies from 5-20 to 200-250 m. Steep 

slopes of the watershed are high and merge with adjustment ridges. From place to place river 

gorge is represented by cliffs. In the downstream areas the slopes of the river gorge are 

terraced. The width of these structures varies from 20 to 300 m and the height from 3 to 10 

m. The surfaces of the terraces are flattened and planted with crops. Two-sided floodplain 

with a width of 40-100 m is met in the middle and downstreams. Its height is 0.5-1.2 and 

over-flooded with 0.3-1.0m water during floods and flashfloods. 

The river bed is moderately meandered and branched in middle and lower reaches. Alluvial 

islands with 10-100 m length, 5-30m width and 0.5-1.0m height are met each 0.5-1 km 

section. At the water source the river bed is characterized by very steep slopes (100-1150) 

and cliffs. From place to place waterfalls are met, of which the highest is the one with 12- 

13m height. In other sections, rapid and low velocity zones sequence each other in every 

100-300 m The width of the river varies from 1-6 m to 40-60 m, its depth – from 0.2-0.8 m to 

0.5-1.5 m and the flow velocity – from 1.5-2.0 m/sec to 0.8-1.2 m/sec. 

The river is fed by snow, rain and ground waters. Of this, the largest contributor to the 

formation of the water flow is the snow melting and its share increases towards the river 

head. The river regime is characterized by spring floods, fall flash floods and summer and 

winter unstable low waters. Spring’s flow contributes about 50% to the annual water flow, 

summer’s flow – 17%, fall’s flow- 19% and winter’s flow – 14%. 

Multi-year average flow of the Adjaristskali River at Khulo gauging site, where the river 

catchment is 251 km 2 , is 8.73 m 3 /sec, maximum flow - 189 m 3 /sec (30 October, 1947) and 

minimum flow – 8.73 m 3 /sec (20 August, 1949) – 0.25 m 3 /sec. The maximum of sediment 

flow was recorded in April 1968 and amounted to 460 kg/sec; minimum flow – in July 1979 

and amounted to 0.086 kg/sec. 

The river is clean and transparent is potable during low flows. Ice is only formed in the 

upstream areas and only during very cold winters. The river is used for power generation and 

irrigation purposes. 

River Skhalta originates on the west slope of the Arsiani ridge, from the source located at the 

altitude of 2,220 m a.s.l. and flows into the Adjaristskali River from the left side near village 

Buturauli. Total length of the river is 29 km, average slope 59 0 , total catchment – 220.1 km 2 , 

average altitude – 1,590 m. The hydrographic network of the the river basin is composed of 

142 small tributaries with a total length of 192 km. The symmetric river basin is located 

between the basins of the rivers Chirukhistskali and Adjaristskali on the west slopes of 

Arsiani ridge. The mountainous relief is characterized by deep gorges with steep slopes. 

Highly eroded branches of the Assiani ridge from 2,400-2,500 m fall to 1,300-1,200 m


towards the gorge of the Ajariststkali River. Geologically, the basin is composed of 

sandstones, mergels, adnesites, basalts, tuffs and porphyries covered with gray podsolised 

clayly soils. The vegetation cover is characterized by vertical zoning. The alpine meadows 

are met the the altitude of 2,000-2,800 a.s.l., which are replaced by dense mixed forests and 

their under-stories at lower altitudes. The plain areas are transformed into agricultural lands. 

The river has a V shape along its entire length. The width of its bed varies from 15-20m to 

100-200m. Steep banks of the basin merge with the slopes of adjacent ridges. The terraces are 

met only in downstream areas. The largest one with 600 m length, 100-150 width and 2.5-3 

m height is found upstream of the river mouth within 2.5 km distance from it. The 

floodplain is formed only in sections from village Khikhadziri to village Vernebi and from 

village Kvtia tot the river mouth. Its width is 90-100 m and height – 0.4-0.5 m. It is covered 

with boulders and flooded by 0.3-1.0 m water during floods and flashfloods. The river bed is 

moderately meandered and un-branched. The width of the river varies between 2-7m to 20- 

25 m, depth – from 0.3m to 1.4 m and the flow velocity – from 2m/sec to 0.6 m/sec. The river 

is fed from snow, rain and ground water. Of these, the largest source is snow melting and 

rain water. The water regime is characterized by spring floods, summer-fall flash floods and 

winter instable low waters. 

The river is clean and transparent and is potable during low waters. Ice is only formed during 

very cold winters. The river is used for hydropower generation and irrigation purposes. 

Chirukhistskali River originates at the altitude of 2,220 m on the north-east slopes of the 

Shavsheti ridge and flows into the Adjaristskali River from the left bank near the village 

Shuakhevi. Total length of the river is 32 km, overall fall 1860 m, average slope 58.1 0 , total 

catchment – 327.5 km 2 , average altitude – 1700m. The hydrographic network of the the river 

basin is composed of 305 small rivers with a total length of 398km. Major tributaries are 

Modulistskali (11km) and Tbeti (15 km). 

The river basin is located on the north slopes of the Shavsheti ridge, whose water divide 

altitudes vary from 2,300m to 2,800m. The relief is mountainous and fragmented by river 

tributaries and their deep gorges. Geologically, the basin is composed of sandstones, mergels, 

basalts, andesites, tuffs, covered by light colored podzolised soils. Vegetation cover is 

characterized by vertical zoning. At the altitude above 2,000-2,200 m alpine meadows are 

met, which in lower altitudes are replaced by coniferous and then by dense mixed forests 

and their understories. The lowlands are used for agricultural purposes. 

The river gorge from the source to the mouth has a deep V-shaped form. The width of the 

river bed varies from 10-15 m to 60-70 m. Steep slopes of the gorge (30-60 0 )merge with the 

slopes of adjacent ridges. Downstream of the village Tselati two-sided terraces are met from 

place to place. The width of these relief forms is 20-50 m, at some places – 150-200 m. The 

height of the terraces is 3-15 m. They are covered with clay soils and near settlements they


are used for agriculture crop production. Two-sided floodplains are met in the downstream 

areas. Their width varies from 40-50 m to 70-80 m, height – from 0.5 m to 1.5 m. During 

floods and flashfloods floodplains are inundated by 0.5-0.7 m water. 

The river bed is moderately meandered and mainly un-branched. Fast and slow flow areas 

sequence each other in every 100-150 meters. From place to place rapids are met. The width 

of the river varies from 1 to 14 m, depth – from 0.3-05 m to 0.7-1.2 m and, the velocity – 

from 2.2.1-6 m/sec to 1.0-1.2 m/sec. The river is mainly fed by snow melt and rain water. 

Groundwaters play a little part in formation of the water flow. The hydrological regime is 

characterized by spring floods, strong fall flashfloods and unstable summer and winter low 

waters. The spring runoff accounts for 60% of annual water flow, fall runoff – for 24% and 

winter runoff – for only 7-8%. 

The ice formation is very short-term phenomenon continuing for only 3-10 days is recorded 

from December through February. The river was historically used for hydropower 

generation and irrigation purposes. 

Korolistksali River originates on the west slope of the Ajara-Imereti ridge, to the west of the 

mount Chinkadze (1,306.1m) within 04. km distance from it at the altitude of 1,180m. It 

flows into the Black Sea to the south of the resort Makhinjauri within 1.2 km distance from 

this settlement.Total length of the river is 13 km, overall fall 1180 m, average slope 90.7‰, 

total catchment – 49.7 km 2. The hydrographic network of the the river basin is composed of 

small rivers with a total length of 22km. 

The river basin is located on the west slope of the Ajara-Imereti ridge between the rivers 

Chakvistskali and Bartskhana. Geologically, the basin is composed of andesites, basalts and 

tuffs, covered with clay and red soils. In mountainous areas deep broad leafed forests are met, 

while downstream of the village Chaisubani the majority of lands is transformed into 

agricultural and industrial lands. 

The river gorge from its source to the village Chaisubani is V-shaped and downstream of the 

village becomes trapezoidal. The gorge, highly furrowed by small streams and deep gorges 

has very steep slopes merging with the slopes of adjacent ridges. The width of the river bed is 

10-15 met at the river source and 350-400 m to the west of the village Kapreshumi. River 

terraces and floodplains are found downstream of the village Chaisubani. The height of the 

terraces is 4-6 m and the width – 50-300 m. Their surfaces are flattened and cultivated for 

agricultural crop and fruit production. The two-sided alluvial floodplain is inundated by 0.5- 

1.0 m level water during floods and flashfloods. 

The river bed is moderately meandered and un-branched upstream of the village Chaisubani. 

Downstream areas are branched creating instable alluvial islands with 100-700 m length, 

from 40-50 to 150m width and 0.7-1.0m height. During flash floods the islands are


inandeted by 1.5-2.0 m water. The width of the river varies from 3-5 m to 30-50m, depth – 

from 0.2 to 0.6 m and the flow velocity from 1.6 m/sec to 0.5 m/sec. 

The river is fed by snow, rain and ground waters. The hydrological regime is characterized 

by weak spring floods and annual flash floods caused by the rains. It has to be noted that the 

mount Mtirala, characterized by the largest amount of precipitations in Georgia (4,519 mm) 

is located on the east water divide. The river is utilized by water mills. 

Chakvistskali River originates on the south slope of the mount Tirati (1,379.4 m) located on 

the Kobuleti ridge, at the altitude of 1,300 m and flows into the Black Sea to the south of the 

village Chakvi. Total length of the river is 23 km, overall fall 1,300 m, average slope 26.6‰, 

total catchment – 173.2 km2. 496 tributaries of different size with a total length of 337 km 

flow into the river. 

The mountainous relief of the basin below the village Khala transforms into the hilly 

landscape. The river bed is moderately meandered and unbranched above the village 

Gorgadzeebi. Downstream of this settlement several islands are formed, which are inundated 

by about 1 m level water during floods and flash floods. The river regime is characterized by 

spring floods and flash floods caused by rains during any season of the year. Besides, the 

water level of flash floods is much higher than that of spring floods. Relatively instable low 

waters are recorded during summer times. The seasonal flow of the water fluctuates 

significantly from year to year. In the downstream area of the basin, the ice phenomenon is 

not recorded. The river is not used for economic activities. 

Atchkva River originates as a result of the convergence of various springs flowing on the 

north-west slope of the mount Ilias Tsikhe at the altitude of 1000 m and flows into the Black 

Sea near Kobuleti. Total length of the river is 19 km, overall fall – 999 m, average slope 

53.6‰, total catchment – 37.9 km 2 , average height – 156 km. The river has 79 tributaries 

with a total length of 80 km. 

The upstream area of the basin, located on the north-west slope of the Ajara-Imereti ridge is 

furrowed by tributary rivers and ravines. The middle stream is hilly and the downstream is a 

plain area. Geologically, the basin is composed of tertiary and quaternary sedimentary rocks, 

covered with clay mountain-forest leached soils. The vegetation is represented by Colkhic 

forests. 

The river bed is moderately meandered. The river width varies between 2 and 12 m, depth – 

between 0.2 to 1.5 m and the flow velocity – from 1.1 m/sec to 0.2 m/sec. The river regime is 

characterized by flash floods during all seasons of the year. Low waters are reported in 

summer. Ice formation does not occur. The river water is used by mills. 

The Kintrishi River originates on the south-west slopes of the Ajara-Imereti ridge, near the 

mount Khino at the altitude of 2,320 m and flows into the Black Sea, south to Kobuleti


within 1 km distance from it. Total length of the river is 45 km, average slope 52‰, total 

catchment – 250 km2, average height – 835 m. The major tributaries and Magalakhevisgele 

(12 km) and Kinkisha (15 km). 

The river basin is characterized by mountainous relief. Geologically the basin is composed of 

tuffs, and alluvial, deluvial and eluvial sediments. Major rocks are covered with clay soils. 

70% of the basin is covered with deep mixed forests. The river bed is meandered and as well, 

branched below the village Khutsubani. As a result of branching small islands are formed, 

with a length varying from 50 to 1000 m and the width varying from 50 to 200 m. The 

width of the river is 1-50 m, depth – 0.2-2m and flow velocity – 1.8-0.7 m/sec. 

The river is fed by snow, rain and ground waters. Spring floods and flashfloods during the 

entire year are specific to the river hydrology. Besides, water level during flash floods is 

much higher than that during floods. Relatively instable low waters are recorded during 

summer periods. Seasonal river regime fluctuates greatly from year to year. Ice phenomenon 

is not recorded at all. The water is used by mills. 

1.3.1 Surface Waters 

The study of the river runoff of the rivers of the Ajara Autonomous Republic has started 

since the beginning of the last century. More specifically, in 1912 the first hydrologic 

observation point was open on the river Kintrishi, Kobuleti, which operated until 1935. In 

1940s gauging sites were open on the rivers Chorokhi, Machakhela, Adjaristskali, 

Chakvistskali, Kintrishi and others. Historical records of hydrological observations are 

available from 1938 through 1986, though the data are intermittent. 

Please see the map of above mentioned hydrological monitoring sites on Ajara rivers in 

annexes below. It is noteworthy to mention that since 1990s of the last century none of the 

hydrological monitoring sites measuring the wáter discharge (same as the runoff) have been 

operational. Limited number of hydrological sites measure only wáter level, which is useless 

for design of power, irrigation and wáter supply systems. 

Major Hydrological Parameters of the Rivers 

Based on historical hydrological monitoring data, observations on the major rivers of Ajara 

have been carried out in different periods and with different durations. Regardless of this, 

observations took place until 90s of the last century. Official data are only published for the 

years until 1987.


Average monthly and annual runoff for the multi-year period is given in Table 15 below. 

Years of observations are also indicated there. 

Monthly and annual means for the Chorokhi River are calculated for natural conditions. 

Currently, the river is regulated and the regime is changed due to large dams and 

hydropower plants operating in Turkey. 

Table 15. Multi-year average monthly and Annual discharges (m 3 /sec) for major rivers of Ajara measured at 

hydrological gauging sites (#14) 

Hydrological 

River Observation 

I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Annual 

Years 

site 

Chorokhi 

Maradidi 

1955- 

68 

84 99 172 349 426 313 166 87 83 99 108 115 175 


Mirveri 

1969- 

80 

92 115 179 426 552 356 156 90 90 136 133 117 203 


Erge 

1930- 

80 

134 176 270 560 678 447 219 130 133 193 198 178 278 

Machakhela 

Sindieti 

1941- 

86 

14 16 22 35 36 24 17 15 16 22 20 18 21.2 

Adjaristskali 

Khulo 

1942- 

86 

4.1 4.9 9.8 25 22 7.4 3.4 2.4 2.8 5.8 6.3 5.5 8.27 


Keda 

1937- 

80 

26 33 54 105 95 43 23 17 21 38 39 35 44.1 

Chirukhistskali 

Shuakhevi 

1943- 

86 

4.4 5.5 9.4 23 28 14 5.8 3.7 4.4 7.3 7.6 6.2 9.9 

Chakvistskali 

Khala 

1940- 

80 

8 9.6 13 16 9 6 6.4 6.9 9.2 13 11 11 9.89 

Kintrishi 

Kokhi 

1941- 

86 

9.7 11 14 21 17 10 7.9 7.8 10 15 14 12 12.5 

Source: Государственный водный кадастр (ОГХ), многолетние данные о режиме и ресурсах поверхностных вод суши, том 6, 

Грузинская ССР, Ленинград изд.,, гидрометеоиздат". 1987 г (State Water Cadaster, Multi-year data on the regime of surface 

waters, volume 6, Georgian Soviet Republic, Leningrad, publishing house : Gidrometizdat, 1987) 

Maximum (peak) discharges with different return time (same as recurrence intervals) for the 

same rivers and hydrological observation sites, are given in Table 16 below. 

Table 16. Maximum discarges (m 3 /sec) of the major rivers of Ajara with different return time measured at hydrological 

gauging sites 

River 

Hydrological 

Observation 

site 

F 

km 2 

Return time τ year 

1000 100 50 20 10 5 

Chorokhi Maradidi 20500 4305 3105 2845 2350 2040 1730 

Chorokhi Mirveri 20900 4345 3135 2870 2375 2060 1745 

Chorokhi Erge 22000 4460 3215 2945 2435 2115 1790 

Machakhela Sindieti 362 760 495 415 370 310 240


Adjaristskali Khulo 251 305 210 180 145 120 99.0 

Adjaristskali Keda 1360 1460 1015 875 690 580 475 

Chirukhistskali Shuakhevi 326 340 235 205 160 135 110 

Chakvistskali Khala 120 640 445 385 305 255 210 

Kintrishi Kokhi 191 790 550 475 375 315 260 

Source: Государственный водный кадастр (ОГХ), многолетние данные о режиме и ресурсах поверхностных вод суши, том 

6, Грузинская ССР, Ленинград изд.,, гидрометеоиздат". 1987 гdas.s. ,,saqwyalproeqtis” fondurimasalebi.(State Water 

Cadaster, Multi-year data on the regime of surface waters, volume 6, Georgian Soviet Republic, Leningrad, publishing house : 

Gidrometizdat, 1987; Archives of Georgian Hydroproject Institute) 

Minimum discharges of different probability are given in Table 17. These data for the 

Chorokhi River are not available in any publication. Retrieving daily data and processing 

multi-year data series will take long time and it is not feasible to go through this exercise in 

the light of change in the natural hydrological regime of this river. 

Table 17. Minimum discarges (m3/sec) of the major rivers of Ajara with Different probability measured at hydrological 

gauging sites 


Hydrological 

Observation 

site 

F 

km 2 Probability, P % 

75 80 85 90 95 97 99 

Chorokhi Maradidi 20500 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

Chorokhi Mirveri 20900 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

Chorokhi Erge 22000 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

Machakhela Sindieti 362 6.3 5.76 5.14 4.52 3.67 3.2 2.44 

Adjaristskali Khulo 251 4.91 4.42 4 3.46 2.83 2.43 1.83 

Adjaristskali Keda 1360 6.18 5.82 5.37 4.93 4.27 3.9 3.24 

Chirukhistskali Shuakhevi 326 5.19 4.85 4.43 3.99 3.39 3.1 2.73 

Chakvistskali Khala 120 16.9 15.8 14.3 13 11.7 10.8 9.84 

Kintrishi Kokhi 191 18.7 18.1 17.2 16.2 14.9 14 12.5 

Source: Государственный водный кадастр (ОГХ), многолетние данные о режиме и ресурсах поверхностных вод суши, том 

6, Грузинская ССР, Ленинград изд.,, гидрометеоиздат". 1987 г da,,Ресурсы поверхностных вод СССР, том 9, Закавказье и 

Дагестан, выпуск 1, западное Закавказье". Обобщенные материалы наблюдений на реках, озерах и водохранилищах. 

Ленинград, изд. ,,гидрометеоиздат". 1969 г. (i. State Water Cadaster, Multi-year data on the regime of surface waters, 

volume 6, Georgian Soviet Republic, Leningrad, publishing house : Gidrometizdat, 1987; ii. SurfaceWaterResourcesoftheUSSR, 

volume 9, Trans-Caucasus and Dagestan, first publication, Western Trans-Caucasus.Aggregatedhydrologicaldataforrivers, lakes 

and reservoirs. Leningrad, publishinghouse “Gidrometizdat”, 1969) 

Multi-year average monthly and annual data on sediment flow, are given in Table 18. 

Table 18. Multi-year average monthly and Annual sediment flow (kg/sec) for major rivers of Ajara measured at 

hydrological gauging sites 

River Hydrological Years I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Annual 

observation site 

Chorokhi Maradidi 1973-1980 25 33 170 1000 1200 600 150 70 130 130 75 47 300 

Chorokhi Mirveri 1930-/-1980 21 42 130 700 1000 570 250 240 87 81 62 63 260


Chorokhi Erge 1969-1980 0.42 0.53 0.55 1.2 0.93 1.1 0.54 0.44 0.54 1.7 0.65 0.57 0.77 

Machakhela Sindieti 1954-1980 1.5 1.9 4.4 21 15 5.4 1.6 3.0 1.6 2.5 2.5 2.5 4.8 

Adjaristskali Khulo 1969-1980 1.4 3.2 11 38 32 13 3.1 3.9 7.5 12 6.7 4.3 11 

Adjaristskali Keda 1974-1980 0.28 0.88 1.9 12 7.0 1.2 0.59 0.42 0.54 1.5 0.95 0.30 2.3 

Chirukhistskal 

i 

Shuakhevi 1964-1980 0.081 0.22 0.22 0.34 0.12 0.18 0.56 0.41 0.41 0.57 0.14 0.53 0.35 

Chakvistskali Khala 1964-1980 0.15 0.29 0.29 0.80 0.48 0.85 0.39 0.84 1.31 0.76 0.50 0.38 0.61 

Source: Государственныйводныйкадастр (ОГХ), многолетниеданныеорежимеиресурсахповерхностныхводсуши, том 6, 

ГрузинскаяССР, Ленинградизд.,, гидрометеоиздат". 1987 г (State Water Cadaster, Multi-year data on the regime of surface waters, 

volume 6, Georgian Soviet Republic, Leningrad, publishing house : Gidrometizdat, 1987) 

Granulometry of the sediments carried out at the gauging sites, measuring the granulometric 

composition of the sediment are given in Tables 19-25, below 

Table 19. Granulometric composition of the sediment of the Chorokhi River at Mirveti gauging site 

Summer low 

water 

large 73.5 18.2 4.6 1.3 2.4 _ _ _ 

medium _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

fine 0.2 1.2 2.6 4.2 26.2 22.0 21.8 21.8 

Winter low water large 52.0 39.2 6.4 2.4 _ _ _ _ 

medium _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

fine 2.2 4.3 1.2 12.9 37.4 17.8 24.2 _ 


Грузинская ССР, Ленинград изд.,, гидрометеоиздат". 1987 г (State Water Cadaster, Multi-year data on the regime of surface waters, 


Table 20. Granulometric composition of the sediment of the Chorokhi River at Erge gauging site 

Water regime Sediment composition Particle composition (% share of total mass) mm in diameter 

(size of grains) 1- 0.5- 0.2- 0.1- 0.05- 0.01- 0.005-


Winter low water large 40.4 30.9 23.1 5.6 _ _ _ _ 

medium 3.3 15.4 22.0 20.0 39.3 _ _ _ 

fine _ 1.1 0.1 14.5 46.0 13.5 9.7 15.1 




Table 21. Granulometric composition of the sediment of the Chorokhi River at Sindieti gauging site 

Summer low 

water 

large _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

medium 0.4 2.1 4.6 27.9 65.0 _ _ _ 

fine 25.6 19.1 14.0 24.1 17.2 _ _ _ 

Winter low water large _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

medium 1.6 22.3 18.6 28.3 29.2 _ _ _ 

fine 2.0 22.7 24.8 27.1 23.4 _ _ _ 




Table 22. Granulometric composition of the sediment of the Chorokhi River at Khulo gauging site 

Water regime Sediment 

Particle composition (% share of total mass) mm in diameter 

composition 1- 0.5- 0.2- 0.1- 0.05- 0.01- 0.005-





Table 23. Granulometric composition of the sediment of the Chorokhi River at Keda gauging site 

Summer low 

water 

large 0.3 36.1 32.5 24.7 3.4 2.0 0.6 0.4 

medium _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

fine 0.6 0.6 1.7 1.0 40.2 14.8 15.9 25.2 

Winter low water large 0.7 17.9 36.5 22.6 22.3 _ _ _ 

medium 0.6 6.2 33.8 32.1 27.3 _ _ _ 

fine _ 1.4 1.7 5.3 33.8 22.4 13.9 21.5 




Table 24. ranulometric composition of the sediment of the Chirukhistskali River at Shuakhevigauging site 

Water regime Sediment Particle composition (% share of total mass) mm in diameter 

composition 1- 0.5- 0.2- 0.1- 0.05- 0.01- 0.005-


Water regime Sediment 

Particle composition (% share of total mass) mm in diameter 

composition 1- 0.5- 0.2- 0.1- 0.05- 0.01- 0.005-


Gulubagi, Ispiri and Lalula dams), of which Yuzpula will be the highest (223 m high) and 

Mrtali – the lowest (44 m). The latter is already operational. This dam has fully regulated 

natural sedimentation of the river and disrupted its natural distribution. Construction of 

dams and intensive extraction of inert materials from the river beds on the territory of 

Turkey and Georgia has sharply decreased alluvial materials production volume and 

diameter, which has negatively affected both the formation of Adlia-Batumi section of the 

beach, as well as deep erosion of the Chorokhi River. Construction of dams has practically 

reduced to nil renewable sources of beach building materials. Considering the above, it is 

necessary to carry out emergency engineering works for the protection of the Black Sea 

coast. 

Turkish “Ajara Invest” is planning to build three more dams on the territory of Georgia on 

the Chorokhi River: Kirnatis Kveti 12.5 m high, Khelvachauri I – 12.5 m high, and 

Khelvachauri II – 11.5 m high. Reservoirs formed as a result of the construction of these 

dams will serve hydro power stations of the same settlements with the power generation of 

34.6, 36.4 and 36.3 MWs respectively. 

It should also be taken into consideration that dams of the HPP planned to be constructed on 

the territory of Georgia will accumulate limited volume of solid sedimentation carried by the 

tributaries of the Chorokhi River (Ajariskhali and Machakela rivers) from the territory of 

Georgia, which gain negatively affect the formation of Adlia-Batumi section of the beach. 

Black Sea coastal areas of Ajara rivers are not used for irrigation purposes, as agricultural 

cultures do not require excessive irrigation due to high precipitation. Irrigation systems are 

installed only in the Adjaristskali River basin, where precipitation is relatively less. 

According to data from 1988, water from the main rivers of Ajara for irrigation purposes was 

distributed through 27 irrigation channels, which served 2090.7 ha of agricultural land. Table 

25 below shows the list of irrigation systems on the main rivers of Ajara according to 1988 

year data, by the sources of water and agricultural land area. 

Table 26. Main irrigation systems on the basin 

Irrigation systems on the main rivers on Ajara territory 

Source Irrigation system Irrigated area in hectares 

Chorokhi River Akhasheni Farm 3 

Chorokhi River Kelvachauri cattle farm 72 

Chorokhi River Makho Farm 6 

Chorokhi River Kirnati Farm 1 

Machakhela River Chukhuneti Farm 1 

Machakhela River Keda Farm 2 

Acharistskali River Keda Farm 217 

Acharistskali River Kvashata-Vaio JSC 137


Acharistskali River Urtio-nenio lands 370 

Acharistskali River Ganakhleba JSC 93 

Acharistskali River Kartakhi JSC 195 

Acharistskali River Beghleti lands 96 

Acharistskali River Danisparauli lands 111 

Acharistskali River Riketi lands 103 

Acharistskali River Octomberi Farm 200 

Skhalta River Skhalta lands 26 

Skhalta River Kalota lands 71 

Skhalta River Tkhinvala lands 26 

Skhalta River Skvana lands 49 

Chirukhistskali River Shubani Farm 172 

Chirukhistskali River Oladauri lands 120 

Chakvistskali River Khala Farm 2,5 

Chakvistskali River Chaisubani Farm 4,1 

Chakvistskali River Chakvi Farm 2,0 

Kintrishi River Kobuleti Farm 5,3 

Kintrishi River Khutubani Farm 5,8 

Source: Saktskalproeqti data, 1988 

Based on the same year data, there was a total of 8,646 ha of land irrigated in Ajara, of which 

97,0 ha in Kobuleti District, 3,409 ha in Khulo District, 3,403 ha in Shuakhevi District, 1,650 

ha in Keda District and 87 ha in Khelvachauri District. 2090.7 ha of this land was irrigated 

through the main river systems listed above, while 6,555.3 ha – from the tributaries or 

unnamed ravines. 

Currently, according to the data of 1 January 2010 of the Department for Highways and 

Melioration Systems Management of Ajara Autonomous Republic, the Department had 8,482 

ha of land, of which 6,963ha is arable land. According to the same Department, Khelvachauri 

Municipality owns 1836 ha of drainage system land, of which 1093 ha is arable land. 

Kobuleti Municipality own 3550 ha of drainage systemland, of which 2343 ha is arable land. 

The Department also owns two irrigation and drainage pump station. 

Based on 2011 data there are 24 main water users and 44 fish farms; According to the same 

data, 847,998 thousand m 3 of water has been provided for water usage in Ajara, of which 

groundwater reservoirs provided 6,672 thousand, surface waters – 841,331 thousand m 3 . Of 

these, 34,807 thousand m 3 of water was used for household and utility purposes, 5,740 

thousand for production, 768,175 thousand for hydropower, 3,928 thousand for agriculture 

and 27,785 thousand m 3 – for fish farms.


1.3.3 Natural Lakes and Reservoirs 

Apart from the rivers described above, there are five small natural lakes on the territory of 

Ajara Autonomous Republic (Black lake, Nurigieli, Ardagani, Small Green Lake and Large 

Green Lake), as well as Laituri and Ispani marshlands. Lake surface area and the volume of 

water accumulated in themare so insignificant, that there is no information regarding them 

in hydrologic literature. Laituri marshland is located on the territory of Kobuleti 

Municipality, in the basin of the Sharistskali River, which is the right tributary of the 

Choloki River, and at the 5-15 m a.s.l.. Laituri marshland area is 1 km 2 , accumulated water 

volume – 1.6 mln m 3 . Ispani marshland is situated east of Kobuleti, 1-8 m a.s.l.. It is 6 m deep 

with the surface are of 19 km 2 , and volume of 102 mln m 3 . Some part of Ispani marshland is 

dried out, but remains unutilized. 

At this point in time, there are no artificial reservoirs operating in Chorokhi-Adjaristskali 

pilot basin, though hydro power infrastructure development projects envisage construction 

of many reservoirs of this type. 

1.3.4 Ground Waters 

In accordance with hydro-geological zoning of Georgia (I. Buachidze, 1970), Ajara belongs to 

the Ajara-Trialeti Folded System and consists of the Fractured Confined Water System of 

Ajara-Imereti, with a dominated type of fractured ground waters there. Ajara ground waters 

are contained in Middle Eocene volcanic-sedimentary and vein deposits as well as in alluvial 

sediments, where they are represented by porous waters. Detailed description of water 

bearing complexes and horizons (aquifers) is given below. (Please see Annex 7) 

Aquifer of the recent marine sediments (mQIV) 

Recent marine sediments are spread along the Black Sea Coastal zone as a narrow 

intermittent line. This water bearing horizon lithologically is composed of oval stones and 

sandy-stony facies replaced with clays towards the north. The sediments are heterogeneous 

and are characterized by lithological diversity towards both vertical and horizontal 

directions. This feature determines the differentiated water-content of the aquifers. 

Ground waters of the recent marine sediments have weak mineralization, moderate hardness 

and hydrocarbonate-calcium-sodium chemical composition. The mineralization increases in 

the vicinity of the coastal line and makes up 2.6-3.0 g/l, water hardness here is measured at 

2-5 mg/equiv. and, water is composed of chlorine and sodium.


The aquifer is primarily recharged by infiltration of atmospheric precipitations and 

sometimes from waters flowed from bank terraces. The water regime is unstable. The water 

level varies within 1.7-2.0m and is related to the atmospheric precipitations. High level of 

ground waters is linked to spring and fall floods and low level – to summer low waters. The 

aquifer has narrow distribution and low flow rate. Ground waters of the given aquifer are 

highly mineralized and therefore, are not used for drinking water supply. 

Aquifer of recent bog deposits (hQIV) 

Ground waters of recent bog deposits are widely spread to the south-west of the Batumi, on 

the Kakhaberi valley, to the east of Mejinis Tskali and the village Gonio. Lithologically, the 

aquifer is represented by peat, sands, clayey sediments, clays and loam. The thickness of the 

aquifer is 50-10 m. 

The stratum is completely saturated with water, freely circulating in sands and clayey 

sediments. Peat and loam are relatively impermeable. The water table is located within 0.3- 

4.5 m depth from the land surface. Ground waters are abstracted through wells. Ground 

waters are characterized by high water table varying within 0.5-2.5 m depth from the land 

surface. Frequent rainfalls cause raise in water table and soil water logging that leads to the 

bogging of large areas. 

Recent wetland sediments are recharged by atmospheric precipitations and ground waters 

contained in recent alluvial sediments. 

The variation of ground water level of the given aquifer is strongly related to the amounts of 

precipitations. High water level is recorded in winter time and the lowest level – in spring 

time. The water is fresh and free flowing (unconfined). It belongs to the hydrocarbonatecalcium 

or hydrocarbonate-calcium-sodium-magnesium class. 

The water has poor potable qualities and in many cases is contaminated. It also has peat odor. 

Due to the high water table and good permeability of strata, ground water of the recent bog 

sediments is easily contaminated and therefore, is not used as potable water. 

Aquifer of recent alluvial sediments (Holocene alluvial deposits - aQIV) 

This water bearing horizon is met in all floodplains and first terraces of the large rivers (e.g. 

Chorokhi, Adjaristskali, Korolistksali, Kintrishi, etc.). 

In the foothills, alluvial sediments overlay Middle Eocene sediments and on the Kakhaberi 

plain – Upper Quaternary alluvial and marine sediments. This aquifer is composed of alluvial 

sands, oval stones and gravels. The granulometry of sediments is changed from source to 

mouth. In the upper and middle courses coarse stones and pebble gravel dominate in the 

alluvium, while in the lower course as a result of decreased flow velocity heterogeneous 

sands and granular gravels dominate in alluvial sediments.


The thickness of the alluvial sediments is 5-40m. Water is free flowing. Flow is inclined 

towards river flow and river banks. Therefore groundwater flow is fan-like. There are lots of 

wells in the alluvial sediments that abstract water for household consumption. A water table 

in these wells varies from 0.5 to 5.5m. Water saturation of sediments varies in accordance 

with the change in their granulometric composition. In pebble gravels and oval stones with 

granule gravel hydraulic conductivity is 100-150 m/day. In the Kakhaberi valley, artesian 

wells have the capacity of 10-12 l/sec. Flow rate fluctuate within 0.2-5.0 l/sec range. 

By chemical composition, ground waters of alluvial sediments belong to the hydrocarbonatecarbonate-sodium 

class. Total hardness varies within the range of 0.3-1.4 mg-ekv/l, 

carbonate hardness – within 0.3-1.2 mg-ekv/l and pH– within the range of 6.5-7.0. Water 

temperature varies from 12 to 15 0 C. Total mineralization is 0.1-0.3 g/l. 

Nearby Khelvachauri center towards Chorokhi several wells with 20-30m depth have been 

drilled. Their flow rate is 25-30 l/sec. Hydraulic conductivity is 80-120m/day. Average 

thickness of the aquifer is 36-40m. Water bearing rocks are characterized by high 

permeability. The average flow rate of the ground water is 15-20 l/sec. Mineralization of the 

water does not exceed 0.3 g/l. The aquifer is recharged by surface water discharge, 

atmospheric precipitation and ground waters contained in the rocks adjacent to mountainous 

areas. One more additional source is ground waters contained in alluvial sediments and major 

rocks located below these sediments. 

The Hydrological regime of the aquifer is closely linked to the fluctuations in the surface 

water level and the amounts of atmospheric precipitations. Discharge of the aquifer occurs in 

the form of downward flowing springs, which discharge directly into the Black Sea at the 

mouth of the river Chorokhi. The dependence of ground waters on the river is demonstrated 

by the drastic change in water regime of springs flowing from the first floodplain terrace as a 

result of seasonal variation of the surface water level. During the summer and the beginning 

of the fall, sources flowing from the first terraces dry up, while the discharge rates of other 

sources drop sharply. The aquifer provides drinking water to major settlements (Batumi, 

Khelvachauri, Kobuleti, Chakvi). 

Since there is a strong linkage between the aquifer and surface waters, it is possible to 

increase the water abstraction to a certain level in order to supply settlements with drinking 

water. 

Aquifer of the Upper Quaternary Alluvial-marine sediments (amQ III ) 

The aquifer contained in above sediments is widely spread in Kakhaberi valley and upper 

terraces of the major rivers. In particular, they are widely met on the right bank of the river 

Chorokhi.


Lithologically, the given horizon is composed of pebble-gravel, oval stones and sandygranule 

gravel facies. They are cemented by sands, clayey sands, clayey sediments and clays. 

On the terraces, the laterite denudation zone is developed with an average thickness of 3.0m. 

Springs flowing out of these sediments indicate about their high water content.The flow rate 

of these springs is 0.1-0.4 l/sec. The well capacity varies within 0.5-1.0 l/sec, which increases 

significantly in those areas where terrace deposits are covered with thick deluvial layer. 

The water level in wells varies within 1.5-4.01 m. There are numerous artesian wells 

abstracting water from 1.5-5.0 m to 55-60 m depth. In the Kakhaberi valley, on the right 

bank of the river Chorokhi Upper Quaternary alluvial-marine sediments are sub-ducted to 

80-100 m and are overlaid by Holocene deposits. Sub-ducted sediments contain confined 

artesian and sub-artesian ground waters, whose piezometric levels vary within -4-5.8m to 

+1.2m from zero ground. Pressure is created by the 15-20m thickness stratum located 

between Upper Quaternary and Holocene deposits and composed of oval stones saturated 

with clayey fills. The capacity of the bore wells varies between 1.0 and 5.4 l/sec. The 

hydraulic conductivity is 10-25m/day. 

The aquifer is recharged by atmospheric precipitations and surface waters and their 

discharge occurs through the sources located on terrace stairs or through discharge directly 

into the Black Sea. The ground water regime depends on the amounts of precipitation and 

the variations in river hydrological regime. The aquifer has a good perspective for drinking 

water supply. They are well-protected from pollution due to the presence of impermeable 

clay-clayey layers. 

Aquifer of the Middle Quaternary Alluvial-Marine Deposits (am QII) 

The aquifer of the Middle Quaternary Alluvial-Marine Deposits is open by boreholes. In the 

coastal line it is composed of oval stones, weakly cemented conglomerates, sands and clayey 

facies. In accordance with geophysical data, the thickness of this stratum is 130-150m. The 

aquifer is located within the 60-95m depth from the land surface. From overlaying horizon it 

is separated by 20-30m thickness oval stone interbeds cemented by clayey fills. 

The ground water is confined with piezometric level varying from -3-4m to +1.2m. The 

boreholes have the capacity of 0.3-12 l/sec. When the water table is decreased from -1.4m to 

-3.2m, the capacity is increased from 0.012 l/sec to 7.0 l/sec. Chemically, the ground waters 

belong to hydrocarbonate, rarely to hydrocarbonate-sulfate-calcium or calcium-sodium 

classes. Overall salt content is 0.1-04 g/l. The water is characterized by low hardness making 

up 0.5-1.3 mg/equiv/l. and rarely 5.0, PH is 6-6.5. 

The aquifer is recharged by atmospheric precipitation and the surface water (river 

Chorokhi). The discharge of the ground waters occurs from water bearing rocks located on 

the terraces. The water is potable and together with ground waters of Upper Quaternary 

sediments can be used for household consumption.


Water Bearing Complex of Pliocene Sediments (N2) 

This water bearing complex has limited distribution. Outcrops of Pliocene sediments are 

found on both sides of the river Korolistskali. They are composed of conglomerates, sands 

and sandstones. Ground waters are at large contained in conglomerates and sandstones. 

Shallow circulation waters are of porous-fractured origin. They are unconfined and are met 

at 1.5-7.8 m depth. Rarely, the level of their distribution reaches 13.0m. 

Spring in the Adjaristskali river basin 

Water saturation of the complex is weak and the flow rate varies between 0.001 to 0.1-0.07 

l/sec range, rarely it reaches 0.1-0.2 m/sec. The water bearing complex is recharged by 

atmospheric precipitation and partially, by surface waters. Water discharge occurs in erosive 

ravines and gorges. The ground water regime varies greatly and depends on the amounts of 

precipitations. Springs are downward flowing and no group seepage areas are found. 

By chemical composition, ground waters belong to hydrocarbonate, calcium-sodium and 

magnesium class, rarely to hydrocarbonate-sulfate-sodium-calcium class. 

Ground waters are fresh with 0.35-0.85 g/l total mineralization, 0.45-0.5 mg-ekv/l total 

hardness and 5.9-7.4 pH. Waters are non-aggressive. Springs and well waters are used for 

drinking purposes by households though; they are not used as sources for centralized water


supply systems due to low flow rates and unstable water regime. Some sources are captured 

through captation and are used as drinking water. 

Water Bearing Complex of the Upper Miocene-Lower Pliocene (N1 3 +N2 1 ) - the Goderdzi 

Formation 

Given sediments are spread at the sources of the rivers Adjaristskali and Chirukhistskali as a 

narrow line. The lower part of the water bearing complex is represented by tuffs, tuffsandstones 

and tuff conglomerates, while the upper part – by denudated andesite basalts. 

Ground waters are contained in breccias of Goderdzi suite and are of porous-fractured origin. 

They are characterized by shallow circulation. Water discharge and recharge areas mainly 

coincide with each other. By chemical composition, springs belong to hydrocarbonatecalcium-sodium 

class, occasionally chlorine content increases. In the Kurlov formulae 

chlorine ion takes the second place. Total mineralization is 0.1-0.4 g/l and water temperature 

– 7-8 0 C. Water regime is unstable. Springs have good potable quality though due to a distant 

location from the settlements they are not used in centralized water supply systems. 

A water bearing complex of lava flows located in the upper part of the Upper Miocene- 

Lower Pliocene sediments is characterized by good infiltration due to the presence of many 

fractures. This facilitates easy flow of ground waters into weak-fractured tuffogenous rocks 

located below lava sediments. 

The flow rate of ground waters of the water bearing complex is low, making up 0.1-0.2 l/sec. 

By chemical composition, ground waters belong to hydrocarbonate-calcium-sodium class. 

Occasionally, chlorine content increases though, it does not take the first place in the Kurlov 

formulae. Total mineralization makes up 0.08-0.1 g/l (ground waters are extremely fresh) and 

the water temperature is 7-9 0 C. The complex is recharged by atmospheric precipitation. 

Water regime of springs is unstable, though they never dry. Springs have good potable 

qualities, though due to extremely low discharge rates they are not used in centralized water 

supply systems. 

Aquifer of Middle Eocene Vulcanogenic Rocks (P 2 2 ) 

This aquifer is widely spread in Ajara. River gorges of Adjaristskali, Kintrishi and others are 

composed of igneous rocks of Middle Eocene. The average thickness of the aquifer is 4.0km. 

Lithologically, the complex is represented by thick layers of lava (volcanic) breccia, tuff and 

tuff-sands. 

The saturation of the stratum varies from place to place. There are sections with high, low 

and no water content. The run-off modulus per 1km 2 is 2.0 l/sec. The water bearing 

complex is represented by Nagvarevi and Middle Eocene Chidila and Nagvarevi suites. 

Deposits of both formations are homogenous, though Chidila suite has a higher saturation


than Nagvarevi suite. There are numerous water sources flowing out of upper parts of Middle 

Eocene. However, they have low water flow rate varying from 0 to 0.3 l/sec. Along with 

tectonic faults the flow rate increase from 1.2 to 10.0l/sec. 

With its chemical composition the ground water belongs to hydrocarbonate-calcium-sodium 

class with an total hardness of 0.5-2.4 mg/equiv./l - 5.5-7.7 mg/equiv./l. Water temperature is 

7-15 0 C. Overall mineralization is 0.2 g/l-0.3 g/l. 

On the territory of Makhinjauri there are several boreholes with a depth reaching the 

Middle Eocene sediments. The depth of one of them is 1,560m. This well opened three 

confined aquifers, one at 319.6-365.3m depth and with hydrocarbonate-calcium-sodium 

composition, 0.4 g/l total mineralization and 20 0 C water temperature; second at 446-572m 

depth and with sulfate-chloride-sodium chemical composition, 0.35 g/l total mineralization, 

0.2 l/sec flow rate and 17 0 C water temperature; third at 1535-1560m depth. Well capacity is 

0.35 l/sec, temperature – 19 0 C. By chemical composition, the water belongs to 

hydrocarbonate-sulfate-chloride-sodium class. Fractured waters contained in above strata 

have 0-0.2 l/sec flow rates. Waters are hydrocarbonate-calcium-magnesium, extremely fresh 

with total mineralization of 0.04-0.1 g/l and temperature of 5.5-7.0 0 C. 

The aquifer is recharged by atmospheric precipitation and condensation of water vapor in 

open fractures). Water discharge occurs near river sources through flowing of a number of 

springs. Forest covered areas are poor is springs. Sources with high discharge rates are found 

near the tectonic folding (diastrophism) and outcrops of intrusive rocks. 

Aquifer of the Intrusive Rocks of the Middle Eocene (γp 2 2 ) 

In Ajara intrusive rocks are represented by separate bodies. Total area makes up 22.0km 2 . 

Sediments are represented by sienite-diorites, grano-diorites, quartz monzonits and intrusive 

bodies. Intrusive bodies are denudated at their surfaces and contain fracture waters with low 

flow rates. Intrusive bodies play the part of the barriers. Sources generated from Eocene 

aquifers have relatively high flow rate (0.5 l/sec). 

Ground waters are extremely fresh. Total mineralization is 0.06-0.2 g/l, temperature of 

springs 7-13 0 C depending of the absolute izolines of discharge areas. 

By chemical composition, ground waters are hydrocarbonate-calcium, hydrocarbonatesulfate-calcium-sodium-magnesium 

or sodium-calcium type. 

Deep circulation ground waters of above sediments are poorly studied. Mineral water sources 

of sulfate-carbonate-sodium-calcium or calcium-sodium class may give some understanding 

of these ground waters. Springs are characterized by high mineralization (1.1-3.0 g/l). 

Ground waters of intrusive rocks are recharged by atmospheric precipitation and 

condensation of water vapor contained in open fractures. Water regime is unstable. Given


groundwaters are characterized by a low flow rate. Therefore, they are used for drinking at a 

limited scale. Separate sources are used for individual consumption.


CHAPTER 2: HUMAN ACTIVITIES IN 

THE PILOT BASIN


2. HUMAN ACTIVITIES IN THE PILOT BASIN 

Introductory note 

Below is an analysis of human activities that geographically covers Georgian part of 

Chorokhi trans-boundary basin, sub-basin of Adjaristskali, a major tributary of the river 

Chorokhi and some smaller watersheds draining into the Black Sea. This includes a sizable 

area of Autonomous Republic of Ajara, Georgia, although this area does not totally coincide 

with Ajara’s administrative boundaries. Nevertheless, such differences are too insignificant to 

affect the results of the analysis. 1 The analysis is mainly based on the data provided by the 

National Statistics Office of Georgia, various departments of the Government of the 

Autonomous Republic of Adjara, as well as on Ajara Regional Development Strategy 

document. A number of internet resources were also used. 

While dealing with Ajara it is important to take into account the fact that unlike other 

autonomous bodies acknowledged by the Georgian Constitution as well as unlike other 

autonomous entities existing within the former USSR, this one was established (13 October, 

1921) based on Article VI of the Treaty of Kars with a condition that the autonomy would be 

provided to the local Muslim population. The Ajara’s autonomy proper was formally 

established on July 16, 1921. Today the status of the Autonomous Republic of Ajara is 

determined by the Constitutional Law of Georgia “On the Status of the Autonomous 

Republic of Ajara” (added by the Constitutional Law of Georgia on 20 April 2000).2 

Currently Ajara consists of the self-governing city - Batumi (the capital of the Autonomous 

Republic) and five municipalities – Khulo, Shuakhevi, Keda, Khelvachauri and Kobuleti. The 

total area of the Autonomous Republic is about 2900 km 2 . 3 

2.1. Demography 

The total population size of Ajara is 393.7 thousand people (as of January 1, 2012). The 

population is concentrated in the city of Batumi and 5 municipalities. With its population 

size, Ajara is currently the sixth largest region of Georgia (among 11) and its capital is ranked 

fourth among Georgian cities after Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Rustavi. (Please see Annex 9) 

Table 2.1.1.Ajara population size by municipalities (January 1, 2012) 

1 

There are different versions of spelling the name of this autonomy in English. The most wide spread is Adjara, although the official documents use Ajara. Thus 

in this text this later is formally adopted. 

2 

The Constitution of Georgia, article 3.3. 

3 

The official Ajara government web-site gives the total area as 3000 km 2 , although we prefer to compose it as sum of respective areas of municipalities and 

Batumi, which is 2900 km 2 . This number was also adopted during 2002 population census.


Municipality Thousand Share, % Density, 

person/km 2 

1 Batumi 125.8 32.0 1935.4 

2 Keda 20.5 5.2 45.4 

3 Kobuleti 93.0 23.6 129.2 

4 Shuakhevi 22.9 5.8 39.0 

5 Khelvachauri 95.6 24.3 262.0 

6 Khulo 35.9 9.1 50.6 

Total Ajara 393.7 100.0 135.8 

Source: National Statistics Office of Georgia 

This population is rather unevenly distributed between coastal and mountainous parts of 

Ajara. Coastal area – Batumi proper as well as Kobuleti and Khelvachauri municipalities 

concentrate 4/5 of the local population, with the rest residing in Keda, Khelvachauri and 

Khulo. Formally there are just two towns in Ajara – the city of Batumi and the town of 

Kobuleti (population size of about 20 thousand people in 2011) and 7 small urban 

settlements, with a total population less than a half of the republic’s urban population. On 

the other hand, almost entire coastal zone with approx. 50 km length is densely populated 

and may be considered as part of a single Batumi urban agglomeration, which embraces 

virtually all municipalities directly adjacent to the capital. The size of the population of the 

mountain zone increased by 21 % during 1959-2012, while coastal zone population increased 

by 75 %. The ratio between populations of coastal and mountainous parts of Ajara is 

constantly changing in favor of the former. In 1959 coastal population outnumbered the 

mountain population 2.7 times and, in 2012 this ratio increased to 4. On the other hand, the 

concentration of population in coastal zone took place without depopulation of mountainous 

zone, a phenomenon, which makes Ajara so different from other parts of Georgia. 

There are also considerable differences in population density between coastal and 

mountainous areas. Khelvachauri municipality, virtually forming Batumi suburbs, has a 

population density almost twice as high as the Georgian average, while the density in 

mountainous municipalities is 5-6 times less than in Khelvachauri. Still, these municipalities 

were traditionally overpopulated and experience continuous immigration, both seasonal and 

permanent. During recent decades negative environmental factors have been added to the 

economic factors of migration. Construction of ill planned gas pipelines and large scale illegal 

logging since 1990 have become predominant factors contributing to major landslides and 

other adverse phenomena, repeated on an annual basis. 

According to the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs of Ajara, total of 9072 families were moved 

from mountainous Ajara to other parts of Georgia by the government. According to 2002 Census data 

there were total of 16540 households in three mountainous municipalities. About 55% of this number 

was registered as migrated elsewhere during some 22 years, which is an extremely high figure 

bespeaking about unfavourable living conditions for human beings in this part of the autonomy.


Considering that there were approx. 4.5 persons per household on average in these municipalities, 

total number of migrants might amount to approx. 41 thousand. 

3388 

2610 

333 

853 

339 

1379 

170 

Households 

Figure 2.1.1. Households relocated from Ajara to other regions of Georgia during 1989-2011 

Source: Ministry of Health and Social Affairs of Ajara 

During the 1990s, like all other parts of Georgia, Ajara experienced a considerable decrease 

in population size, mainly through outmigration caused predominantly by rapid 

deterioration of socio-economic conditions. Unlike other Georgian regions, Ajara was not 

subject to civil unrest and thus, this was not a factor for population outflow here. During a 

given period, approx. 50 thousand people or about 13% of the region’s current population 

migrated from the autonomy. Considering the amount of eco-migrants from mountainous 

municipalities, mentioned in the box above, one can assume that environmental factors 

played as important role as economic factors in outmigration. This sets Ajara rather apart 

from the rest of Georgia. 

In Ajara, net population loss between two censuses of 1989 and 2002 amounted to 16.4 

thousand persons. Of this, 14.9 thousand is attributed to the urban population. Despite this 

fact, Ajara’s rate of population growth still outpaces the Georgian average (see Figure 2.1.1.). 

The region’s share of total population size of Georgia constantly grows. By 2012 the growth 

rate reached 8.8% versus 6.1% in 1959.


160 

150 

140 

130 

120 

110 

100 

1959 1970 1979 1989 2002 2012 

Ajara 

Georgia 

Figure 2.1.2.Comparative population dynamics of Ajara and Georgia (1959 = 100) 


During 2002-2012, Ajara’s population grew by 4.7% or by just about 0.5% annually. This rate 

itself does not look impressive, but it is 1.4 times higher than that of the national average and 

the second after the growth rate of Tbilisi, amounting to 8.4% during 2002-2012. Thus, Ajara 

experienced the lowest population “drip” during 1989-2002 and respectively, it is the only 

Georgian region, which has recovered its population size of 1989 (see Figure 2.1.3). 4 Even the 

capital – Tbilisi, has not yet recovered from population loss of 1990s, despite its rather 

impressive growth rate. Such a quick recovery of Ajara’s population might be attributed to 

both better general socio-economic conditions of the region and higher natural population 

increase. 

120 

110 

100 

90 

80 

2002 

2012 

4 

Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region does not fit into this context since it accommodates very high number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) from Abkhazia.


Figure 2.1.3.1989-2012 Population dynamics by regions of Georgia (1989=100) 


Ajara was always characterized by higher than average natural increase levels mainly due to 

lingering Islamic traditions of the local population. Today it has the highest natural growth 

rate in the country, 3.4 times higher than the national average and 1.2 times higher than that 

of Kvemo-Kartli region, characterized by the second highest natural growth rate. This is very 

impressive achievement, considering that 6 out of 11 regions have negative natural growth 

rate. The only municipality in Georgia, which has the natural growth rate higher than Ajara 

is Marneuli, Kvemo Kartli region populated almost exclusively by Muslim Azeris – 6.86‰. 

Batumi is characterized by the highest natural growth rate in the country – 10.2‰. This 

particular phenomenon may largely accounted to the fact that Ajara is rather small and in 

majority of cases it is easier to give birth to a child in the capital with its much better healthcare 

facilities, rather elsewhere in the region. 

8 

6 

4 

2 

1.8 

3.8 

6.2 

0.76 

5.3 

1.65 

0 

-2 

-4 

-3 

-0.25 

-1.62 

-0.67 

-0.86 

-6 

-8 

-10 

-8.8 

Natural Increase ‰ 

Figure 2.1.4. Population natural growth rate by regions of Georgia, 2011 

Source: Calculations based on “Demographic Conditions in Georgia, 2012” by the National Statistics Office 

As a result, the share of working age population in Ajara is slightly higher than Georgian 

average. According to 2002 census data, it made up 65.4% versus 64.6%- the national 

average. Moreover, the region’s population age is lower than national average. The share of 

the population above working age was 10.6% in 2002, while in Georgia it was 16.5% on 

average. Correspondingly, the share of the population group under age 15 was also

Kakheti 

Tbilisi 

Shida Kartli 

Kvemo Kartli 

Ajara 

Samegrelo 

Imereti* 

Remaining 

regions** 



noticeably higher than the country’s average, making up 24% in Ajara versus 18.9% in 

Georgia. 

Table 2.1.2. Sex-age distribution of population of Ajara, 2002 

Population groups Male,% Female, % Total, % 

Below working age 12.41 11.63 24.03 

Working age 32.65 32.77 65.43 

Above working age 3.10 7.43 10.54 


Unemployment rate in Ajara is 18%, which is 2.9 percentage points higher than the 

Georgian average. This is the second largest figure in the country after Tbilisi – 29.3%. On 

the other hand, such statistics should be treated with care, since in Georgia, everyone who 

possesses agricultural land is automatically considered as employed, even if he/she does not 

derive any income from such ownership. Such approach definitely inflates employment 

levels towards predominantly agricultural regions, while Tbilisi and Ajara are characterized 

by much higher than average unemployment rates. This explanation describes the existing 

situation more accurately (see Table 2.1.3). In general, the higher is the ratio of selfemployed 

people to hired employees, the lower is the unemployment rate and vice versa. 5 

Table 2.1.3. Distribution of population with age 15 and older by economic status and regions of 

Georgia, 2011 

Active population (labor force), 195.0 437.4 144.1 195.5 189.3 211.0 370.4 216.6 1959.3 

thousand persons, 

of which: 

Employed 177.6 309.4 131.2 177.2 155.3 176.2 336.1 201.2 1664.2 

Hired 41.8 251.2 35.0 54.4 56.8 44.5 101.8 46.4 632.0 

Self-employed 135.8 57.3 96.2 122.5 98.1 127.7 233.6 154.1 1025.4 

Not-identified worker 0.0 0.9 0.0 0.2 0.4 4.0 0.7 0.7 6.8 

Unemployed 17.4 128.0 12.8 18.3 34.0 34.8 34.3 15.4 295.1 

Population outside labor force 82.7 361.6 59.6 108.8 94.1 87.6 161.4 90.0 1045.9 

Unemployment rate,% 8.9 29.3 8.9 9.4 18.0 16.5 9.3 7.1 15.1 

Economic activity rate,% 70.2 54.7 70.7 64.2 66.8 70.7 69.6 70.6 65.2 

Employment rate,% 64.0 38.7 64.4 58.2 54.8 59.0 63.2 65.6 55.4 

*Includes Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo-Svaneti. ** Samtskhe-Javakheti, Guria, Mtskheta-Mtianeti 


5 

Samegrelo is an exception here too and again due to high share of IDPs among the local population.


In Ajara in 2011 155.5 thousand people were employed, of which 56.8 thousand or 36.6% of 

all employed were hired. According to Ajara Regional Development Strategy, in 2010 the 

average annual number of employed in business sector made up 31 847 persons. Of this 

amount, 18% were employed in manufacturing, 17% in health care, 15% in trade and 12 % 

in construction. Together these 4 sectors accounted for 61% of all employed in the business 

sector (see Figure 2.1.5.). Agriculture is represented by just about 4% of all employed in this 

sector. In the same year the number of unemployed in Ajara reached 32.5 thousand persons, 

i.e. it was higher, than the number of employed in the business sector. This fact quite well 

illustrates the actual level of economic development of the region, since the business sector, 

the main driver of such development, is clearly too small to perform such function 

successfully. 

6000 

5000 

4000 

3000 

2000 

1000 

0 

Figure 2.1.5. Employment in Ajara business sector by activity, 2010, persons 


2.2. Overview of economic activities in the basin 

Economic activities in Ajara are mostly concentrated in Batumi and can be traced since 

incorporation of this region into the Russian Empire in 1878. Batumi was granted the urban 

status in 1878 and its port given rights of free economic zone (PortoFranco). Thanks to such 

status Batumi has attracted foreign investments and eventually has become an important 

transportation and economic development hub for the entire South Caucasus region. This


function was further strengthened by the construction of Baku-Batumi railway and 

especially petroleum pipeline, which was the longest pipeline in the world at the beginning 

of 20-th century and supplied Baku oil to world markets. By that time, Batumi attracted such 

leading global investors as Rothschilds, Siemens and like, the regional branch of the Bank of 

England was also situated in Batumi. 

During the Soviet period (1921-1991) geographical location of Ajara was dramatically 

altered. It was virtually isolated from the outside world and turned into a dead end in the 

south-eastern corner of the Black Sea. Moreover, the large part of its territory directly 

adjacent to Turkey was a closed zone. 

Regardless of the fact that Batumi has retained its leading port and oil terminal functions, it 

has lost the role of regional development hub and the status of free economic zone. On the 

other hand, the Soviet authorities were committed to the policy of regional development 

aimed at the maximization of local economic functions in order to safeguard full 

employment of population. Within the framework of such policies Ajara has become a multifunctional 

industrial zone, with 67 enterprises and 19.2 thousand personnel in 1988. Batumi, 

for instance, has acquired Petroleum Refinery (1928-1932), the largest enterprise even built 

in Ajara. Industrial sector of Batumi, besides petroleum refining, has been represented by 5 

enterprises manufacturing machinery and equipment for food industry, various electric 

appliances for household and industrial application, small tonnage ships (including the 

cutters with hydrofoils). There have been also pharmaceutical, furniture, leather and 

footwear, garment and various food, beverages and tobacco manufacturing enterprises. 

Batumi has been the 4th largest industrial center of Georgia, after Tbilisi, Kutaisi and 

Rustavi. It has produced 78% of commodity output of Ajara and has provided employment to 

83.4% of industrial employees. 6 13 enterprises located in Kobuleti municipality have 

produced 14% of commodity output of the autonomy and have provided employment to 1.9 

thousand persons (10% of all employed in industry). 

Ajara agriculture has been specialized in production of subtropical crops. At the end of the 

Soviet period it produced 70 thousand tonnes of tea leaves, more than 200 thousand tonnes 

of various citrus, 2500 tonnes of tobacco annually. It also produced 15.3 thousand tonnes of 

milk and dairy products, 24.8 ml. eggs, 4.8. thousand tonnes of meat, etc. 7 Regardless of the 

above, both industrial and agricultural specializations of the local economy have only met 

the needs of closed-loop Soviet consumer market and could not stay competitive after 

collapse of the Soviet Union. Inefficiency of the local economy was also augmented by the 

chaos of 1990s, when Ajara functioned as semi-independent, isolated entity hardly subject to 

the central Georgian government rule. During this period its economy deteriorated rapidly 

6 

საქართველოს სსრ რეგიონების სოციალურ–ეკონომიკური განვითარება. სტატისტიკური კრებული, თბილისი, საქ. სსრ სტატისტიკის სახელმწიფო 

კომიტეტი, 1989, გვ. 83. 

7 

საქართველოს სახალხო მეურნეობა. სტატისტიკური წელიწდეული 1988. თბილისი, გვ. 274. აჭარა ციფრებში. მსოფლიო ციფრებში. სტა- 

ტისტიკური კრებული, ბათუმი, 2002, გვ. 50–51. საქართველოს სსრ რეგიონების სოციალურ-ეკონომიკური განვითარება. სტატისტიკური კრებული, 

თბილისი, 1989. გვ. 144–161.


and the vast majority of its industrial enterprises suspended their operations. By 1995, the 

number of employees in industry halved to 10 thousand, of which many were only formally 

registered as employed; by 2001 it further reduced to 4 thousand. In manufacturing during 

1995-2001 the number of employees dropped from 2026 to just 427. Batumi refinery, the 

largest enterprise of autonomy ceased functioning in 1999. Its share of local industrial output 

dropped from 69.5% in 1998 to zero in 1999. 8 

Agriculture has undergone similar transformations, although there has been a significant 

difference. The segment of agriculture oriented to a single Soviet market and functioning 

within the system of collective farms, has become almost obliterated, while the production of 

goods for local markets by individual farmers has not been hit so hard. For instance, tea 

production has almost disappeared after dropping to 6 thousand t in 1995 and 1936 t in 2001. 

Citrus production dropped to 40 thousand t in 1995, although slightly increased to 46 

thousand in 2001. Tobacco production dropped almost 5 times. On the other hand if in 1989 

there were registered 134.2 thousand heads of various cattle, this number reduced to 122.7 

thousand in 2001; egg production dropped from 24.8 ml. in 1989 to 18.6 ml. in 2001. 9 

After the regime change in Georgia in 2003 and de facto subordination of Ajara to the central 

authorities, this region, especially Batumi, received a kind of preferential treatment by the 

Georgian government and personally by the president Saakashvili. Batumi has obviously 

developed as a kind of showpiece of Georgian success, sometimes even referred to as a 

summer capital of Georgia. Batumi today is mostly being developed predominantly as a 

tourist centre with strong bias towards gambling. 

More specific results of various sectors of economic development are provided in appropriate 

parts of this report. Speaking in more general terms, Ajara today is one of the most rapidly 

developing regions of Georgia. (Please see Annex 3) 

One of the main problems associated with writing reports on the socioeconomic development of any region of 

Georgia, is the absence of appropriate information or its unreliability. For instance, we have requested and 

received data on household expenses and consumption in Ajara, but after careful consideration have decided 

not to use this information in this report, since it has looked highly doubtful. Moreover, it has been impossible 

to gather any official information on investments in Ajara. The Ministry of Finance and Economy of the 

autonomy on its official web-site (http://www.mofea.ge/index.php?m=1) advertises the whole range of data 

related to the local economic development, including various versions of investment data analysis, but no 

appropriate link is actually working, or at best provides absolutely unrelated information (e.g. Under the title 

“Priorities of the Government of Ajara Autonomous Republic for the years 2012-2015” a commentary by Bill 

Clinton is given on the status of the US in Georgia). The last available economic review on Ajara by the 

Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia date back to 2009 and is also of doubtful quality 

(http://www.economy.ge/upload-file/pdf/Adjara.pdf). 

8 

op. cit. 2003 წ.,გვ. 35. აჭარა ციფრებში, მსოფლიო ციფრებში. სტატისტიკური კრებული. ბათუმი, 2002. 

9 

აჭარა ციფრებში, მსოფლიო ციფრებში, სტატისტიკური კრებული, ბათუმი, 2002, გვ. 52.


According to the last available data, gross regional product in Ajara in 2010 amounted to 

approx. USD 773.6 ml. or 6.6% of Georgian GDP. This is the 4th largest regional product in 

Georgia after Tbilisi, Imereti, Racha-Lechhumi and Kvemo Svaneti and Kvemo Kartli 

regions. 10 Ajara generates approx. 16% of Tbilisi regional product, about 62% of combined 

value of Imereti, Racha-Lechhumi and Kvemo Svaneti as well as 90% of Kvemo Kartli 

product. In 2010, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region produced a little less than Ajara (by some 

1.5%), although it’s starting position in 2006 was considerably better than that of the former 

(by 24%). Regional product grew in Ajara by an impressive 87% during 2006-2010, which is 

the best result among Georgian regions, higher than the Georgian GDP growth for the same 

period – 76%. 

9,000.0 

8,000.0 

7,000.0 

6,000.0 

5,000.0 

4,000.0 

3,000.0 

2,000.0 

1,000.0 

0.0 

2006 

2007 

2008 

2009 

2010 

Figure 2.2.1. Comparative change in regional product by regions of Georgia, 2006-2010, mill. GEL 


The per capita regional product was approx. USD 2 000 of just about ¾ of the Georgian 

average (USD 2623). Comparison of per capita regional products to a large extent smooths 

over differences of nominal regional product and presents a pretty different picture (see 

Figure 2.2.2.). If the largest nominal regional product of Tbilisi in 2010 exceeded the smallest 

- Guria 22 times, for per capita value this difference was reduced to 2.5. Per capita regional 

10 

Georgian statistics in this case counts Imereti, Racha-Lechhumi and Kvemo Svaneti as one region.


product for Ajara was the third largest in Georgia, approx. 48% of Tbilisi and 80% of 

combined Shida Kartli and Mtskheta-Mtianeti value. 11 

Shida KarTli and Mtskheta-Mtianeti 

Kvemo KarTli 

Samtskhe-Javakheti 

Samegrelo-Zemo SvaneTi 

Kakheti 

Imereti, Racha-Lechhumi and Kvemo Svaneti 

Guria 

Ajara 

Tbilisi 

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 

Regional Product per capita 

Figure 2.2.2. Per capita regional product by regions of Georgia, 2010, thousand USD 


Disaggregation of Ajara regional product by types of activities clearly sets it aside from other 

Georgian regions. Here the share of all types of services is very high as compared to other 

types of activities, especially agriculture and industry. This is explained by the fact that the 

autonomy is purposefully developed as a service provider with a focus on the tourism sector. 

It is also characterized by the highest share of construction among all regions, where 

construction provides 1-2, maximum up to 4-6% of regional product. Only in Tbilisi it 

reaches the comparable share of 9%. This clearly pinpoints these two regions as the most 

dynamically developed in the country, even if in case of Ajara investments in a new 

construction are not yet fully reflected in various available economic indices. The high share 

of public administration has also to be mentioned though; this is typical to virtually all 

Georgian regions where this share sometimes goes up as high as 19-20%. 

11 

It is quite probable that this index for Ajara is higher than that of Shida Kartli and Mtskheta-Mtianeti separately and the autonomy actually generates the 

second largest per capita regional product in the country.


Health and social 

work 

9% 

Education 

6% 

Other types of 

services 

22% 

Agriculture, hunting 

and forestry; fishing 

5% 

Public 

administration 

16% 

Industry 

6% 

Transport and 

Communication 

8% 

Processing of 

products by 

households 

4% 

Construction 

10% 

Trade; repare of 

motor vehicles and 

personal and 

household goods 

14% 

Figure 2.2.3. Structure of Ajara regional product by types of activity, 2010 


Since regional product data series are too short to make a correct analysis of its growth trend 

we have attempted to analyse the production growth rate by regions where data series start 

from 1999. In accordance with these data, Ajara has been definitely the lowest point of 

production generation (after suspension of Batumi oil refinery work). The autonomy has not 

been characterized by a production value growth rate higher than that of other regions. 

While during 1999-2011 this value grew in Georgia on average 6.8 times, in Ajara it grew 

just 3.8 times. To compare, for Tbilisi it increased 9 times, for Kvemo Kartli – 8 times.


1,000.0 

900.0 

800.0 

700.0 

600.0 

500.0 

400.0 

300.0 

200.0 

100.0 

0.0 

1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 2009 2011 


Tbilisi 

Ajara 

Imereti 

Kvemo Kartli 

Figure 2.2.3. Production value growth trend by leading regions of Georgia, years 1999-2011 


2.3. Agriculture, irrigation 

According to 2002 census data, approx. 55% of all working persons in Ajara were employed 

in agriculture. Unfortunately no appropriate data is available for a later period, although 

there is no indication that this share could be substantially reduced, especially in 

mountainous part – Keda, Shuakhevi, Khulo. On the other hand, just 5% of regional product 

was generated in agriculture, forestry and fishing in 2010. There is a strong discrepancy 

between the number of people employed in this sector of the economy and the sectoral 

output. Actually, like the rest of Georgia the large part of agriculture is represented by 

subsistence economy, when people produce very little or no marketable products and mostly 

rely on barter within their communities. 

Often people, who are occupied by agricultural production on a daily basis do not even 

consider this as a proper employment and if directly asked, prefer to state that they are 

unemployed. 12 All above pose a real problem for future regional development, since the 

strong focus on tourism development cannot be considered as a viable option to solve the 

unemployment issue in a short to medium run. 

12 

Sustainable Development and Policy Center (SDAP) within the framework of Integrated Natural Management in Watersheds (INRMW) program carried out 

survey of households in Racha, Kakheti and Samegrelo in 2011 and 2012 and often received such answer to the question of employment. There is no reason to 

believe that situation in Ajara differs from these regions of Georgia.


Ajara is predominantly mountainous country, thus the territory available for agricultural 

development here is relatively small. 80% of the region is occupied by mountains, 15% by 

foothills and only 5% comes to the lowlands. Of the total area of the autonomy, 72 862 ha (of 

about 25% of total) is occupied by various agricultural lands. More specifically, 15 899 ha is 

occupied by permanent crops, 12 045 ha – by arable land and 44918 ha – by pastures (see 

Table 2.3.1. and Figure 2.3.1. below). 

Table 2.3.1. Agricultural land use in Ajara 

ha % of total 

Arable land 12 045 16,5 

of which: 

Land under annual crops 10 309 14,1 

Fallow land 1736 2,5 

Land under permanent crops 15 899 21,8 

Pastures 44 918 61,6 

of which: 

Meadows 7 159 9,8 

Pastures 37 759 51,8 

Total 72 862 100 

Source: Ministry of Agriculture of Ajara 

Land under 

annual crops 

14% 

Fallow land 

2% 

Pastures 

52% 

Land under 

permanent 

crops 

22% 

Meadows 

10% 

Figure 2.3.1. Structure of agricultural land uses in Ajara 

Source: Ministry of Agriculture of Ajara


Leading sectors of agriculture in Ajara are represented by citrus and fruit growing, vegetable 

growing, animal husbandry. Other traditional and supporting sectors are represented by: 

viniculture, annual crop production, tea production, apiculture, tobacco growing, etc. 

Citrus growing is the leading sector of agriculture, producing 80% of citrus in Georgia. Citrus 

plantations occupy 5 200 ha in Khelvachauri and Kobuleti municipalities. Almost all citrus 

production (up to 95%) is represented by tangerine. Production in 2010-2011 amounted 46.2 

thousand t, i.e. formally it has not changed since 2001 and is a little bit more than it was in 

1995, the midst of post-Soviet transformation crisis. The citrus production is subject to wild 

fluctuations. According to the Ministry of Agriculture of Ajara, annual production in this 

sector, depending on weather conditions varies up to 2.5 times towards both, growth or 

reduction (see Figure 2.3.2.). In 2009-2011 such yield reached 105 thousand tons and, in 

2011-2012 – 71.4 thousand tons. 

120000 

100000 

80000 

60000 

Citrus, th. tn. 

40000 

20000 

0 

2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 

Figure 2.3.2. Citrus production in Ajara, 2006-2012, thousand tons 

Source: Ministry of Agriculture of Ajara 

This branch of agriculture is also characterized by very low yield. The same Ministry of 

Agriculture claims that there are 22 800 citrus farmers in Ajara, which means that on average 

one such farmer may produce 2, maximum 5 tons of citrus depending on the year. The major 

part of citrus produce (70-80%) is exported, mainly to former Soviet republics. Ukraine used 

to be the main destination of such export, although recently it has been replaced by 

Azerbaijan. Approx. 170 legal entities and individual entrepreneurs participate in citrus 

export. Of these just 4 companies provided more than half of it, of which Ltd Skhalta – XII 

was responsible for about 40% of all exports.


Tea plantations formerly occupied approx. 5616 ha, 63% of which were located in Kobuleti, 

35% in Khelvachauri and the rest in Keda. In 2011, only 9% of these lands were productive, 

the rest is weed infested and generally unfit for cultivation. In 2011 Ajara produced just 602 t 

of tea leaf, which is just about 0.86% of the average Soviet era production. Although there is 

nothing unexpected in such developing trend, since large scale tea production in Georgia was 

possible only within the closed Soviet economic system and as such it is pretty uncompetitive 

in the global market. Indigenous tea is currently un-competitive even on the 

local Georgian market. 8 local processing factories managed to supply just 12 t of tea to 

Georgia proper and exported 164 t black and green tea together with 722 t tea bricks in 2011. 

Viniculture is of a symbolic importance for Georgia, thus it is mentioned as a separate item in 

any report dealing with agriculture in Ajara even if this region produces just about 0.8% of 

grape in Georgia. All kinds of cultivated area under grapes have been reduced from 500 ha in 

1980s to just 177 ha in 2011 with 1340 t annual production, primarily in the Keda 

municipality (about half of cultivated area and 35 to 50% of output depending on the year). 

The area under annual crops (mainly corn and beans) is rather restricted. In 2011 corns 

occupied 5876 ha, soy and beans – 246 ha. Ajara produces about 5% of all annual crops in 

Georgia. 13 In 2011 Ajara reported to produce 12 095 tons of corn, or just 2.05 t per ha, which 

is pretty low compared to the world average of 5 t/ha. Corn is produced in all municipalities, 

with Keda being the largest producer with producing 3785 tons of output annually. Ajara 

also produced 467 tons of beans, which is also produced in all municipalities with Kobuleti 

and Khulo producing about 62% of the total amount. 

Ajara claims to produce 14% of vegetables and potato in Georgia. According to annual 

reports of the Ministry of Agriculture of Ajara, the autonomy produced 9477 t of vegetables 

in 2010 and 11 250 t in 2011. It also produced 49 700 t of potato in 2010 and 59 411 t in 

2011. 14 The problem is that the National Statistics Office of Georgia in its Annual Yearbook, 

2011 (p. 169) states that Ajara produced just 11.6 thousand t of potato in 2010, i.e. there is 

more than 4 fourfold difference. Vegetable production did not even earn the separate line in 

the appropriate table. 

Produced vegetables satisfy just 10-15% of the local demand. This shortage is forecasted to double with the 

further development of tourism and resort infrastructure. Recently commercial greenhouse vegetable 

production was initiated by two companies. Sens Selection produced approx. 30 t of lettuce and 500 kg of 

“cherry” tomatoes in 2011 at its 3500 m 2 greenhouse in Gonio, Khelvachauri municipality. Ikon Group invested 

USD 5 million from Turkey and Germany in 2009 into its approx. 4 ha greenhouse in Salibauri, Khelvachauri 

municipality. This is the largest investment of this kind in Georgia. It produced approx. 50t of tomatoes in 2011. 

13 

http://www.moa.ge/uploads/2011-clis-angarishi.pdf 

14 

http://www.moa.ge/uploads/2010%20Report%20of%20the%20Ministry%20of%20Agriculture%20of%20Ajara%20A.R..pdf; 

http://www.moa.ge/uploads/2011-clis-angarishi.pdf


The same consideration applies to fruit. Land under fruits occupied 4 420 ha in 2011, of 

which 3 242 ha or 73% was productive. Fruit plantations are situated in all local 

municipalities, including Batumi, although about 2/3 of all are located in Kobuleti and 

Khelvachauri municipalities. While the productive area under fruit is rather stable, the 

annual output also fluctuates considerably depending on weather conditions. Ajara claimed 

to produce approx. 8% of all fruit in Georgia, this is about 12 693 tons in 2010 and 10 753 

tons in 2011, of which 35% were represented by pomes and 22% by drupes. According to 

National Statistics Office, Ajara produced 5.7 thousand t of fruit in 2010 (op. cit. p 170). This 

makes up approx. 4.5% of all fruit production in Georgia. 

Ajara claims to provide about 10% of total cattle in Georgia. In 2010 livestock heads here 

reached 110.3 thousand and 109.4 thousand in 2011. Of these 68% were located in three 

mountainous municipalities of Keda, Khulo and Shuakhevi. Again National Statistics Office 

gives the number of livestock in 2010 as 79.3 thousand (op. cit. p 171). 

On average, Ajara produces 2-2.5 thousand tons of meat per annum. 80% of meat production 

also comes from Keda, Khulo and Shuakhevi. It claimed to produce 54 760 t of milk and 

dairy products in 2010 and 54 615 in 2011. As in the case of cattle, 64% of milk production 

also comes from Keda, Khulo and Shuakhevi. Meat production almost doubled in 2007 as 

compared to previous years and more or less stabilized since then, while milk production 

remains relatively stable since 2004 according to the local Ministry of Agriculture, or is 

declining, according to the National Statistics Office. 

The discrepancies in reporting of Ajara agriculture production volume, mentioned above are 

problematic, painting two conflicting pictures regarding the condition and the development 

of agricultural sector in the Autonomous republic, which in its turn, makes it impossible to 

see the actual situation properly, not mentioning its analysis. 

Apiculture has recently emerged as a noticeable sector of agriculture. Up to 2006 this region 

produced approx. 86 tons of honey annually. Since then its production quadrupled and 

reached 359 tons in 2011, of which more than a half – 190 t is produced in Kobuleti. 

On the contrary, poultry farming is obviously declining. The number of poultry in Ajara 

reduced from 364.3 thousand in 2004 to 128.5 thousand in 2011 or 2.8 times, while number 

of eggs produced dropped from 17.4 million to 10.7 million in 2011, or 1.6 times. 

5 local mills processed 56.1 thousand tons of wheat in 2011 producing 36.3 thousand tons of 

wheat flour. Among other foodstuff producers Ministry of Agriculture in its year 2011 

Annual Report also singles out: 

 

Ltd Khelvachauri Bread – bread production;

Million 

USD 

Persons 

employed 

Million 

USD 

Persons 

employed 

Million 

USD 

Persons 

employed 

Million 

USD 

Persons 

employed 


 

 

 

 

 

 

Ltd Batumi Brewery – beer production; 

Ltd Kotauri – mineral water; 

Ltd Batoil – vegetable oil; 

Ltd Sista Georgian Product – dairy products; 

Ltd Adjarian Tobacco – raw tobacco material; 

Ltd Citro – fruit juice; 

In addition Ministry funded 6 investment projects were completed in 2011, namely: 

Ltd Jeoloki – spagetti and pasta factory in Batumi; 

Ltd Ajara Wine house – wine production in the village of Adjaristskali ; 

Ltd Nusret Georgia – cattle farm in the village of Satchino; 

Ltd V & T Agro – 1 ha total area greehouse in the village of Gvara; 

Ltd Naziri and Co – tea processing factory in the village of Mejinistskali; 

Ltd Aktivebis Martvis Qartuli Industriuli Jguphi – citrus processing enterprise in 

Kobuleti. 

During 2006-2011 total of USD 61.6 million were invested in the local agro-industrial sector 

and 20 different positions and 7543 work places were created. More detailed information is 

provided in table 2.3.2. 

Table 2.3.2. Investments in agriculture in Ajara in 2006-2011 15 

Sectors 

2006-2007 2008 2009 2010-2011 

Flour 8.01 425 5.70 188 1.57 175 0.56 287 

Production 

Fruit 11.25 1051 0.68 369 0.11 403 0.31 273 

Production 

and 

Processing 

Vegetable 

0.34 - 3.23 107 9.46 342 

Production 

Total 20, 47 2112 17.21 1663 5.77 1975 18.19 1793 

Total investments in 1006-2011 61.64 

Source: Ministry of Agriculture 

Ajara cannot satisfy its needs in basic agricultural produce and is heavily dependent on import. 

In 2011 the autonomy imported 293.6 thousand tons of agricultural and food staff worth of 

USD 175.9 million, while exported 23.7 tons worth of USD 25.6 million. Thus, the negative 

15 

Only summary investments of USD 10 mill and more are included as separate items.

Amount 

Thousand 

tons 

Million (USD) 

Amount 

change, % 

Amount 

Thousand 

tons 

Million (USD) 

Amount 

change, % 

Amount 

Thousand 

tons 

Million (USD) 

Amount 

change, % 

Amount 

Thousand 

tons 

Million (USD) 

Amount 

change, % 


balance of the agricultural produce sale amounted to USD 150.3 million. In monetary terms 

import exceeds export 6.9 times (see Table 2.3.3.). 

Table 2.3.3. Agricultural export and import in 2008-2011 

2008 2009 2010 2011 

Import 175.3 80.5 -36 185.8 68.8 6 215.0 104.4 16 2963.6 175.9 37 

Export 39.5 6.8 2 43.0 12.8 9 43.7 16.0 1.6 23.7 25.6 -45 

Source: Ministry of Agriculture 

Main import items were – wheat – 99.5 thousand tons, vegetables – 65.9 thousand, fruit – 16.8 

thousand and vegetable oil – 15.8 thousand tons. Sugar, potato and onions were also important 

import items. 

Since coastal lowland and mountainous zones of Ajara are characterized by pretty different 

climatic conditions, lands in the autonomy are in need of both irrigation (mountain 

municipalities) and drainage (coastal areas). Department of Roads and Land Reclamation is in 

charge of irrigation systems in Khulo, Keda and Shuakhevi municipalities and drainage systems 

in Kobuleti and Khelvachauri municipalities. As of January 1, 2010 in Ajara were registered 

total of 8482 ha of irrigated lands, of which 6963 ha was represented by agricultural lands. 

Total of 1836 ha of the drainage network area was registered in Khelvachauri municipality, of 

which 1093 ha were agricultural lands. In Kobuleti municipality there were total of 3550 ha of 

drainage network area, of which 1093 ha were agricultural lands. 

Ajara mainly uses inflows to Adjaristskali for irrigation purposes, which is represented by 

regulated rivers, streams and other flows. Headworks of these flows are mainly primitive, nonengineered 

structures, made of piled up stones. These heads are usually damaged during floods 

and often need repair a number of times per season. Irrigated areas are usually located in 

mountainous zone and are supplied with water by lift irrigation. 

There are total of 235.9 km of shared use irrigation channels, which supply with water 1888 ha 

of agricultural land. Total of 498.5 km of local channels are used to irrigate 4978 ha of land. 

Two irrigation and one drainage pumps are used by the Department of Roads and Land 

Reclamation for this end.

Underground 

Surface 

Public 

(domestic 

and 

Industrial communal) 

Collector- 

Drainage 

Hydropower 

facilities 

Village water 

supply 

Fish Farms 


2.4. Water abstraction and wastewater discharge 

According to the year 2011 data, the total use of potable water in Ajara amounted to 34 807 

thousand m 3 , which is 4 571 thousand m 3 , or 11.6% less than in the previous year 2010. Total 

water abstraction amounted to 847998 m 3 , which is on the contrary, 13.5% more than in the 

previous year (data on the year 2011 water use in provided in Table 2.4.1.) 

Table 2.4.1. Water use in Ajara in 2011 (thousand m 3 ) 

Water Abstraction Water Use Water Discharge 

Water 

Consumer 

Total 

Of which: Total Of which: Total* Of which 


Sea 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 

1 Batumi 42394 3922 38472 40876 32527 5439 2910 - - 

24781 22453 2328 

- 

2 Kobuleti 8223 2314 5809 7473 1544 62 - 2140 2213 1514 1551 1551 - 

3 Khelvachauri 159894 436 159458 159604 210 226 - 153662 856 4650 188 188 - 

4 Keda 629707 - 629707 628207 95.0 5.0 - 606485 116 21506 80.0 80.0 - 

5 Shuakhevi 6896 - 6896 6346 90.0 - - 5888 253 115 72.0 72.0 - 

6 Khulo 889 - 889 839 341 8.0 - - 490 - 278 278 - 

7 Total Ajara 847998 6672 841331 843345 34807 5740 2910 768175 3928 27785 26950 24622 2328 

* Wastewater discharge from HPPs is not included in total figure 

Source: Ministry of Environment Protection 

Changes in water use were mainly defined by the sharp growth of hydro power water use, by 

some 99 268 thousand m 3 , i.e. 14.8%. Water use by fish farms also grew by 2 601 thousand 

m 3 . Water use by industry increased most dramatically - almost six fold, from 962 thousand 

m 3 to 5 740 m 3 . At the same time, there was a significant drop in water use by rural areas 

from 6 913 thousand m 3 in 2010 to 3 928 thousand m 3 in 2011. Hydropower was the main 

consumer of all water, at 91% of all consumed water in 2011. This share has remained almost 

constant since 2010, when it accounted for 89.5% of all consumption. 

Of the total water abstraction in 2011, about 8% was provided by groundwater sources and 

the rest from surface water sources. In 2010 the share of groundwater was much lower at


1.3% of the total. The main sources of ground fresh water in Ajara are Chorokhi and 

Kintrishi filtrates, which are used to supply Batumi and Kobuleti population with potable 

water. In addition, there are 90 active wells which mainly provide water for industrial 

purposes. As of the year 2010 – 5 826 thousand m 3 were abstracted from Chorokhi filtrates 

and 2 671 thousand m 3 from Kintrishi filtrates. Independent water users also abstracted 840 

thousand m 3 of groundwater. 92.1 % of all abstracted groundwater was used for domestic and 

communal water supply and the rest - 771 thousand m 3 – for industrial needs. 

The capital of the Autonomous Republic is the main consumer of both potable and industrial 

water. In 2011 it consumed 94.7% of all industrial water and 93.4% of potable water. All the 

rest of urban and rural settlements together consumed just about 6208 thousand m 3 , or just 

19% of Batumi water consumption. Even this simple comparison displays the problems of 

water supply of Ajara population and communal services, especially in its mountainous 

regions. 

According to Ajara Regional Development Strategy 16 (pg. 12) there are 137 large and small 

water treatment facilities in the autonomy, with the total designed capacity of 92 849 m 3 . Of 

these one provides biological treatment, whilst others – mechanical. 

Catchment basins of Ajara rivers (especially small ones) are densely populated, which 

negatively affects these rivers. Population often uses protection areas around water sources as 

landfills. Such facts were elicited within protected zones of rivers – Mejinistskali, 

Korolistskali, Bartskana. Enterprises located along these rivers also routinely violate the 

existing environmental norms. 

Until recently water supply remained a serious problem for Batumi as well. Even if running, 

water there was visibly unclean, contained plenty of dash and was hardly safe for 

consumption. To tackle this problem Government of Georgia and German Reconstruction 

Credit Bank (KfW) signed an agreement in 2006 on “Rehabilitation of Communal Systems in 

Batumi”. The first stage of the project received the funding of 17 079 thousand Euros. The 

second stage started in 2008 with 45 000 thousand Euro financing. The ongoing third stage 

started in 2010 with 44 000 thousand Euro contribution. Duration of the current phase of the 

project is 60 months. 

Overall the project envisages: 

First stage – rehabilitation of water supply and sewage systems in old Batumi as well 

as central components of the whole system (pumps and like); 

16 

Regional Development Strategy of Ajara Region,Ajara, Batumi, 2011


 

 

Second stage – rehabilitation of water supply and sewage systems in the remaining 

parts of Batumi as well as creating sewage systems for the villages located south of the 

city, building water treatment facilities in order to reduce pollution of the Black Sea; 

Third stage - rehabilitation of water supply and sewage systems in the parts of 

Batumi, which were not covered by the first and second stages of the project; 

modernization of water supply in three villages near Batumi (Chakvi, Mtsvane 

Kontskhi and Makhinjauri) through their inclusion in Batumi water supply system 

and building ecologically safe decentralized sewage systems. 

As of today the first two stages of the project are basically complete and the major part of 

Batumi is supplied with safe water. Although in case of torrential rain water supply 

discontinues as it had been the case earlier. At the same time, all three stages of construction 

of water treatment plant in Adlia were completed in August 2012, which serves Batumi 

(Only Batumi? Information in the chapter 3 is different – to be clarified) with a design 

capacity of 200.000 PE and 5 700 m3. The plant is to apply the following treatment processes: 

screening, grid chamber, mechanical treatment and sludge stabilization in anaerobic ponds, 

biological treatment in trickling filters designed for BOD removal, final sedimentation, 

discharge into the Black Sea via a sea outfall, mechanical sludge thickening and solar drying. 

The cost of this component of the project is 17 000 thousand Euro. Completion of this water 

treatment plant may be the most important component of the rehabilitation project since the 

level of pollution of the Black Sea near Batumi remained dangerously high for decades, 

which negatively affected tourism business. Better informed people preferred to travel to 

Sarpi on Georgian-Turkish border in a search for a clean sea. 

Kobuleti Water Supply Rehabilitation project was also implemented in 2007-2012. 17 It 

envisaged improvement of the water delivery services in Kobuleti, including reconstruction 

of the sewerage system of Kobuleti and a sewerage pump. The project was implemented by 

the Municipal Development Fund of Georgia through Millennium Challenge Georgia 

Program financing. According to the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure 

of Georgia, overall project budget is approx. USD 24 million. 

After the completion of the both projects described above, the population of the most part of 

the Ajara coastal zone will be supplied with safe potable water and pollution of the Black Sea 

will be concurrently minimized. 

Effluent discharges which turn up in water reservoirs amount to 4 154 tons (2010), of which: 

organic pollutants – 562 t (13.5%); 

suspended articles – 1 505 t (36.2; 

petroleum products – 14.7 t (0.4%); 

17 

Expected to be completed at the end of 2012.


other waste products (chlorides, sulfates, ammonia, etc.) – 2 075 t (49.1%); 

Since this data was collected before the launch of Adlia water treatment plant operation, one 

may presume that the amount of the discharged pollutants will be reduced considerably. 

2.5. Industry and mining 

Like agriculture, industry and mining play relatively insignificant role in formation of Ajara 

regional product. In 2011 it amounted to just 6% of the regional product. This share remains 

virtually unchanged during the recent decade, except for 2009, when it reached 8.1%. 

According to National Statistics Office of Georgia as of January 1, 2012 there were 419 large, 

medium and small industrial enterprises registered in Ajara. Of these are registered in: 

manufacturing – 397; 

mining – 17; 

electricity, gas and water supply -5. 

In 2011 production value of industry in the Autonomous Republic was USD 143.4 or 3.8% of 

the total production value in Georgia. Ajara was the sixth largest region in Georgia by this 

indicator (see Figure 2.5.1.). Turnover in industry amounted to USD 1192.5 million. 

3812.8 

1485.2 

943.4 

143.4 44.8 

388.3 

124.1 115.0 8.6 

169.7 88.7 

274.9 

Figure 2.5.1. Production value in industry by regions of Georgia, year 2011, USD million 

Source: National Statistics Office of Georgia


Both production value and turnover in industry have been steadily growing since 1999, 

when the National Statistics Office of Georgia started the appropriate data series. Production 

value increased approx. 9 times during this period, although the real growth started since 

2006, when production increased 1.8 times as compared with the previous year and then 

again increased 1.5 times in the following year followed by 1.6 times rise in 2011. Turnover 

generally followed this trend, although more smoothly (See Figure 2.5.2.). 

154 

143.4 

55.8 

42.5 

71.7 

72 72.3 

64.5 

102.7 

92.9 

87.189.2 

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 

Production value 

Turnover 

2.5.2. Production value and turnover in industry, in Ajara, in 2006-2011, USD million 


6437 persons were employed in industry in 2011. This is virtually the same number, which 

was in 1999, although it relatively decreased for several years in the past decade. Ajara differs 

in this respect from the majority of Georgia’s regions where the number of industrial sector 

employees significantly decreased. This trend was observed in 6 regions out of ten. The only 

exception was the Georgian capital, where industrial employment rose 1.3 times. 

91% of all the employed in this sector work in manufacturing. 41% of all the employees are 

occupied in the production of textile and textile goods as well as production of food products, 

beverages and tobacco – 31%.


3000.0 2540.4 

2500.0 

2000.0 

1238.7 

1500.0 

1000.0 

500.0 

82.3 20.8 

194.5 

56.7 83.3 3.2 30.1 31.4 

540.4 

170.1 

0.0 

Investment 

Figure 2.5.3. Investment in fixed assets in industry by regions of Georgia, 2006-2011, USD million 


Ajara is not considered as the region where industrial development is a priority, hence 

overall investment in this sector is rather small compared to some other regions, especially 

Tbilisi and Imereti, Kvemo and Shida Kartli. On the other hand it is much higher than 

investment in agriculture, especially if one considers that considerable part of such 

investments were actually invested in the industry, but claimed by both sectors (see for 

instance investments in flour production to the amount of USD 14.3 million, table 1.3.3.). 

Data reliability is an issue in this case as well. According to Ajara Strategic Development 

document (Figure 6.6, p. 159) investments in the industry in 2006-2011 amounted to USD 

135 million or 1.64 times higher than provided by the National Statistics Office. Of this, USD 

79 million was invested in 2010 and 2011. Such difference is too large to be ignored easily. 

On the other hand independent verification of this data is not possible. (Please see Annex 3) 

2.6. Hydropower generation 

Ajara is situated within the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali Basin and sub-basin district and therefore 

possess huge, mainly untapped hydro resource potential. The estimated total potential 

installed capacity of Ajara rivers is 1000 MW and annual electricity generation - 8760 million 

kWh. 18 

18 

Overview of Energy Sector in Ajara Ministry of Finance and Economy of Ajara A.R.2011, http://batumiinvest.ge/presentations/Energy.pdf


The estimated potential installed capacity (P) for the smaller rivers on the territory of Ajara 

municipalities is 243.9 MW, with an annual electricity generation (E) - 1276.7 m kWh. 19 All 

the Ajara hydropower potential is currently utilized by one medium capacity and 4 small 

hydro power (MHP) plants (see Table 1.7.1.). These HHPs together cover just 9% of Ajara’s 

electricity consumption. 

Table 2.6.1. Small hydro power potential of Ajara rivers 

Municipalities 

Installed Capacity – P 

MW 

Annual electricity generation – 

Em kWh 

Kobuleti 88.2 586.3 

Keda 18.7 96.8 

Shuakhevi 70.4 363.7 

Khulo 43.3 79.3 

Khelvachauri 23.3 150.6 

Total Ajara 243.9 1276.7 

Source: Hydro Energy Technical Potential Cadastre of Rivers of Georgia 

Table 2.6.2. Hydro Power Plants of Ajara, year 2011 

Qualified Enterprise HPP name Rated Capacity 

MW 

Electricity Sold 

kWh 

JSC “Energo-pro Georgia” Atshesi 16 62 344 000 

Ltd "Bakuri" Machakhelahesi 1.6 n/a 20 

Ltd "Zahesi" Kinkishahesi 1.4 n/a 

Ltd "Sanalia" Sanaliahesi 5 2 687 000 

Ltd "Georgian International Energy Achihesi 1 n/a 

Corporation" 

Source: The Electricity System Commercial Operator, ESCO 

The State Program “Renewable Energy 2008” ‐ (Georgian Government Decree #107 April 18, 

2008) on the approval of the new rule to facilitate the construction of renewable energy 

sources in Georgia –“is aimed at facilitating the construction of renewable energy sources by 

means of attracting the investments”. 21 

Since adoption of this program, the Government of Georgia and the Ministry of Energy and 

Natural Resources (MENR), must pay special attention to the utilization of renewable 

resources, especially hydro resources. 

19 

Overview of Energy Sector in Ajara. Ministry of Finance and Economy of Ajara A.R.2011, http://batumiinvest.ge/presentations/Energy.pdf. 

20 

HPP of this size are not included into ESCO statistics separately. Ajara Strategic Development Document claims to provide the appropriate information, but 

the problem is (see Table 2.4, p.102) that it provides HPP capacity in square tons and generation in million kW tons, which makes these data highly doubtful. 

21 

http://www.esco.ge/files/decree_107_final.pdf


In order to attract foreign investors the GoG proposes to work with them on Build-Own- 

Operate (BOB) principle, which means that: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All new power plants are totally deregulated; 

No generation license is needed for HPP under 13 MW of capacity; 

No tariff is set for the newly built HPPs –the investor is free to choose the market and 

the price; 

There is no special fee for connection to the grid; 

Free third-party access is allowed to the grid; 

No license is required to export and no tariff set; 

During the first 10 years of the power plant operation, during the winter season of 

each year during three months, the electricity produced by the power plant for 

domestic consumption shall be on a tax-free (deregulated) tariff basis, and/or by 

means of the guaranteed power purchase agreement (PPA) agreed upon in advance 

with ESCO in which the tariff is determined according to the legislation in force. 22 

Within the framework of “Renewable Energy 2008” State Program there were agreements 

signed ensuring construction of 43 HHP in various parts of Georgia with the total installed 

capacity of 2 142 MW, annual generation of 8 831 GW/h and total estimated investment of 

USD 3 441 578 830. 23 The latest deadline for the completion of construction of some of these 

HHPs is 2017. Analysis of actions of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of Georgia 

with regard to construction of HHPs may lead to conclusion that it became obsessed with the 

idea of maximizing hydro power capacity in the country and simply attempts to cram as 

many HHPs as possible into every available river disregarding all concomitant circumstances 

– whether social, economic or ecological. 

In the framework of such policy, number of HPP construction projects within Ajara are 

being planned and implemented (see Table 1.7.2.). 

Table 2.6.2. Planned HHP projects in Ajara 

Name of 

HPP 

Company Installed 

Capacity 

MW 

Annual 

Generation 

GWh 

Estimated 

Investment 

USD million 

Construction 

startcompletion 

Khelvachauri 1 

Khelvachauri 1 

Achar Energy 

2007 Ltd 

Achar Energy 

2007 Ltd 

36.4 153.9 57,2 01.01.2012- 

31.12.2016 

34.6 167.7 69,6 

22 

http://www.menr.gov.ge/en/4494, Energy Sector of Georgia, February 2010, Energy_sector_Geo.pdf 

23 

This is one of versions of information provided by MENR, since the list is constantly updated. http://www.menr.gov.ge/en/4758


Kirnati 

Shuakhevi 

HPP(Adjaristskali 

Cascade) 

Koromkheti HPP 

(Adjaristskali 

Cascade) 

Khertvisi HPP 

(Adjaristskali 

Cascade) 

Machakhela 1 

Achar Energy 

2007 Ltd 

Adjaristsqali 

Georgia LLC 

Adjaristsqali 


Adjaristsqali 


34.6 173.2 69,2 

175 

2013-2016 

150 500-1200 350-650 2015-2019 

65 2017-2020 

Machakhela 

HHP Ltd 

28 132 53 01.03.2013- 

01.09.2016 

Machakhela 2 

Machakhela 27 130 50,9 

HHP Ltd 

Kintrishi 

Hydro 

Development 

5 30 8 25.03.2012- 

25.07.2014 

Company 

Source: Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of Georgia, http://www.adjaristsqali.com 

According to the Memorandum (01.07.2011) concluded between LTD "Achar Energy 2007" 

and ESCO, Georgian Government Ltd "Energy Trans" - the company “Achar Energy 2007” 

was given the right to use the potential of the river Chorokhi. According to the project 

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report, construction of HPP cascades is 

planned on the lower part of the river Chorokhi, namely on the last 21 km section, between 

21 and 53 levels a.s.l. 24 The project envisages construction and operation of a 3-step, riverbed 

type cascade (Kirnati, Khelvachauri I and Khelvachauri II), with a total capacity of 105.7 

MW. 

On each step of the cascade reinforced-concrete dam, reservoir, power house, substation and 

other infrastructure will be installed. For functioning of the first step of the cascade (Kiranti 

HPP) only river Chorokhi water will be used, namely water from Muratli HPP (Muratli HPP 

conducts 180 m3/sec or 360 m3/sec water)25, and second and third steps will use the river 

Acharistskali and the river Machakhelistskali water, together with the river Chorokhi. 

According to the agreement (10.06.2011) between "Clean Energy Invest" AS (Norway) and 

Georgian Government, Ltd "Energy Trans" Ltd, "Georgian State Electrosystem" (ESCO), 

Clean Energy through its subsidiary Adjaristskali Georgia LLC acquired the right for the 

development of the Adjaristskali Hydro Project. 26 

24 

“Achar Energy 2007” Ltd, Project on Construction and Operation of HPP Cascades on the river Chorokhi 

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report, Executor “Gamma Consulting” Ltd, Director Vakhtang Gvakharia,2011 

25 

This HPP is part of cascade in Turkey 

26 

http://cdm.unfccc.int/filestorage/_/1/KR4XUOTBHQ9SJVINE2183MZ0LGYP6A.pdf/PDD-Adjaristsqali%20Hydro%20Project-1-29- 

06.pdf?t=Yzl8bWNydmNufDBhkxLMIXZTyZlC__SAxBPXhttp://www.adjaristsqali.com/upload/Adjara_Scoping_Report_REV%20B%20FINAL%20DRAFT_v2. 

pdf


The project includes Shuakhevi HPP, Koromkheti HPP and Khertvisi HPP. The detailed 

information of each step project is briefly discussed below: 

 

 

 

Shuakhevi HPP project: installed capacity of the HPP will be 175 MW. The project 

envisages construction of two dams with reservoirs and one weir on the river 

Adjaristskali, on the river Skhalta and on the river Chirukhistskali. Diversion is 

planned through diversion tunnels. The main power unit will be installed near 

Shuakhevi, in particular in the upper part of the confluence of the river Adjaristskali 

and Chvanistskali; 

Koromkheti HPP project: installed capacity of the HPP will be 150 MW, which will 

include one dam and reservoir on the river Acharistskali (in the lower part of 

Shuakhevi power unit), one low-threshold dam on the river Chvanistskali and weir 

on the river Akavreta. The water transportation is considered by the diversion 

tunnels. 

Khertvisi HPP project: according to the project the installed capacity of the HPP will 

be 65 MW. The project includes the construction of a dam and a reservoir on the 

Adjaristskali River and of the weir on the Machakhelistskali River. The water will be 

transported by diversion tunnels. The power unit construction is planned on the right 

bank of the Chorokhi River. 

As of today it is still unclear whether all three HHPs will be built, or only the first two. 

According to the project, the HPPs cascade is envisaged for peak production of the 

electricity. The cascade will operate with maximum load during the periods of high demand 

of the electricity, when the prices are high in the Republic of Turkey. 

The amount of generated electricity depends on the current water resources. Accordingly, 

the operation of the HPPs at the full capacity will be available all day long during the flood 

periods, while during the shallow water periods the water will be gathered in the daily 

regulation reservoirs (in this period the HPPs will not be supplied with the water) and the 

peak generation will be conducted during the peak demand on electricity in Turkey. 

After the implementation of these ongoing and potential projects the total installed capacity 

of all HPP in the region should reach 490.6-555.6 MW or 49-56 % of the potential installed 

capacity; accordingly annual generation may become 1 286.8-1 986.8 GWh or 15- 22.7 % of 

potential generation. These HHPs are now at various stages of implementation. 27 In addition, 

two more potential HHP projects are under consideration. One is Merisi, on river Akavreta, 

with installed capacity 11.5 MW and annual generation 56.72 GWh and the other – Skhalta 

(river Skhalta), installed capacity 5.3 MW and annual generation 29.04 GWh. 28 

http://www.adjaristsqali.com/files/ESIA%20Adjaristskali%20HPP%20Cascade%20Book%20I.pdf 

27 

http://www.menr.gov.ge/en/4758, Current projects 

28 

http://hpp.minenergy.gov.ge/index.php?lang=eng


Mid and long- term outlook seems impressive, although it is also obvious that Ajara cannot 

utilize this potential, the major part of which will be used elsewhere, although Ajara will 

bear all potential negative ecological impact. For instance from the very beginning, 60% of 

the energy generated by the Chorokhi River cascade (Kirnati, Khelvachauri I and 

Khelvachauri II) will be earmarked for the sale to Turkey. 

83% of the energy produced by Adjaristskali Cascade HHPs will also be supplied to Turkey. 

On the other hand, the logic behind the decision to install 9 HHPs within the relatively 

small, densely populated territory, which in addition is considered as a tourism center, is 

rather doubtful. Even more so, if one considers the fact that Adjaristskali Cascade HHPs are 

to be constructed in addition to already existing HHP on the same Adjaristskali. 

Furthermore, there are well founded concerns that implementation of these projects will 

have the lasting negative effect, especially on the formation of the Black Sea coastal line. 

Today 80% of Chorokhi solid sediment runoff is caught by Chorokhi cascade constructed in 

Turkey. Afterwards no such sediments will reach the Black Sea, with all the associated 

consequences. In addition, local environmental NGOs highlight the fact that such large scale 

construction will further accelerate degradation of natural habitats, will have especially 

negative influence on river fish, including species list in the Red Book. They also warn 

against the negative impact on the general state of natural tourist attractions and as well as 

local climate with accompanying adverse weather phenomena, which will in turn negatively 

impact tourism in Ajara. 

2.7. Waste disposal 

Waste disposal in Ajara, as everywhere in Georgia poses a serious threat to local 

environment. On average approx. 300 000 m 3 of solid waste is disposed here annually, 

although this is very approximate data, since the amount of waste delivered to landfills is not 

properly registered and is calculated based on volume of garbage trucks and the number of 

vehicle runs per week. (Please see Annex 10) 

To alleviate the waste disposal problem, the Ajara Solid Waste Management (SWM) Project 

was formally launched in 2009 with the total financing of 7 million Euro provided by EBRD 

and SIDA. In accordance with the project documentation it envisaged the following 

activities: 

As the first stage, the construction of a new regional sanitary landfill in Chakvi in accordance 

with the EC Directive on landfills 1999/31/EC was envisaged. Apart from the landfill, it 

envisaged construction of relevant buildings, weigh-bridge, drainage collection and 

treatment system, sorting and storage facilities for recyclable wastes, temporary storage of 

hazardous waste mixed in the municipal waste and as well, purchase of vehicles necessary for


the operation. Methane capturing system was planned to be constructed after 3-5 years of the 

landfill operation. 

It was suggested to operate and maintain the landfill through a separate landfill Management 

Company. Initially, the Government of Ajara was consideredas an owner of the new landfill 

company. 

Old landfills (controlled waste disposal sites) not meeting minimum sanitary and 

environment standards in Batumi and Kobuleti were planned to be closed and remediated. 

The new landfill had to serve coastal region, including the city of Batumi and towns Kobuleti 

and Khelvachauri. 29 The second stage of the project included improvement of waste disposal 

services in mountainous Ajara. 

Table 2.7.1. Landfills in Ajara, year 2012 

Landfill 

Location 

Start of 

Operation, 

year 

End of 

Operation, 

year 

Share of 

Household 

Waste, % 

Vehicle/ 

day 

Vehicle 

Capacity 

, 

m 3 

Landfill 

Managem 

ent 

Year of 

Existing Data 

Batumi 1965 active 95 20-25 16-40 open 2000-2011 

Kobuleti 1 1960 2007 25 10-12 7,5-32 open 2001-2007 

Kobuleti 2 2007 active 35 10-15 7,5-32 open 2007-20011 

Keda 1990 2010 15 1 5 open 1993-2010 

Shuakhevi 1990 2010 12 1 5 open 1990-2010 

Khulo 1 1989 2010 12 1-2 5 open 1989-2010 

Khulo 2 2001 active 60 2 5 open 2002-2011 

“Beshumi” 

Source: Directorate for Environment and Natural Resources of Ajara AR 

Regardless of the fact that the government of Ajara received project financing in 2009, due to 

the resistance of the local population and environmental organizations even the first stage of 

the project was not implemented. Discussions about the location of a new landfill are 

ongoing and controlled waste disposal sites in Batumi and Kobuleti are still operational. 

2.8. Fish farms 

Available information about fish farms in Ajara is scarce/absent. The Ministry of Agriculture 

simply reports that Ajara possesses unique conditions for breeding Black Sea Salmon and 

brown River Trout. Until 1990s there were about 15 trout farms in the autonomy producing 

20 thousand tons of fish annually. Today fish production does not exceed 2 500 t, which 

29 

FEASIBILITY STUDY AND PROJECT PREPARATION. Environmental Impact Assessment –Executive Summary for EIA 

Environmental Impact Assessment. Stockholm 2008-11-17, Project No. 1989177 

www.ebrd.com/pages/project/eia/36538eng.pdf


satisfies just 35% of the local market demand. 30 There are between 90 to 100 fish farms in 

the region, the largest four of which are specialized at production of up to 600 t of American 

trout. (Please see Annex 11) 

2.9. Transportation and navigation 

Transport contributed about 5.2% to Georgian GDP in 2011. This sector (together with 

communications) also accounted for 1-2, maximum 3% of regional products. There were just 

three exceptions – the capital Tbilisi (19%), Samegrelo- Zemo Svaneti (19%) and Ajara (8%). 

Of these, the latter two have higher shares primarily due to the location of two leading 

Georgian sea ports – the largest one – Poti in Samegrelo and the second largest – Batumi in 

Ajara. 

Batumi port has been operational since 1878. For more than a century it is specialized as 

export port for transportation and transit of oil products and dry cargo. It is a transportation 

hub that brings together sea, rail, road and pipeline transport modes. 

In February 2008, “Batumi Industrial Holdings” subsidiary company of JSC “KazTransOil”, 

acquired the right of long-term management of Batumi Sea Port (49 years), as well as 

purchased Batumi Oil Terminal. From 80 to 90% of port’s total turnover is a crude oil and oil 

products as well as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This is the only terminal on the 

Caucasian-Black Sea coast used for handling LPG. About 70% of total turnover of dry cargo is 

general cargo. 

The territory of the port is 22.2 ha. Of this, open storage territory is 1.64ha. The number of 

the staff is 726; Number of berths (same as docks) – 11. Currently the port owns oil berths 

(Berths No.1, No.2, No.3 and CBM-conventional buoy mooring), container terminal (berths 

No.4, No.5), railway ferry terminal, dry cargo terminal (berths No.6, No.7, No.8, No.9) and 

the passenger terminal (berths No.10, No.11). 31 Since November 2007, the Container 

Terminal, Ferry Bridge and General Cargo berth No.6 have been operated by BICT, a 

subsidiary body of International Container Terminal Services Inc., a Philippine based 

company. 32 

30 

http://moa.ge/ge/index.php?page=show&sec=29 

31 

http://www.batumiport.com/eng/index.php 

32 

http://www.bict.ge/home. In addition to the main functions, close location to Turkish border makes BICT an ideal cargo reloading point from trucks to wide 

gauge (1520mm) railroad carriages for transit to Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, etc.


Batumi is the focal point of the Eurasian transportation corridor (TRACECA) – the European 

Priority project to provide transportation communication from Europe to the Caspian Sea 

and farther to Asia. It starts in Bulgaria, Ukraine and Romania and, through the Black Sea 

reaches the ports of Poti and Batumi. Railway, automobile and pipeline routes connect it to 

the Caspian Sea and farther to the countries of Central Asia-Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, 

and through these to Uzbekistan, Kirgizstan, Tajikistan and reaches the boundaries of China 

and Afghanistan. (Please see Annex 4) 

7000 

6000 

5000 

6001 6102 

5722 

5879 

5038 5155 

4000 

3000 

2000 

1000 

0 

101 157 117 155 155 154 154 153 153 57 57 54 54 46 46 

2009 2010 2011 2009 2010 2011 2009 2010 2011 

Transit Import Export 

Oil and oil products Liquefied petroleum gas Total turnover 

Figure 2.9.1. Turnover of Batumi oil terminal, years 2009-2011, ths.tones 

Source: Batumi Oil Terminal


25000 

20000 

15000 

20194 20984 

23383 

22059 

10000 

5000 

0 

84017917 

4945 

3019 3680 

90 

2008 2009 2010 2011 

Import Export Transit 

Figure 2.9.2. Turnover of Batumi container terminal, years 2008-2011, TEU 33 

Source: Batumi Container Terminal 

700 

600 

500 

400 

300 

200 

100 

0 

512 

530 

397 394 

423 

382 

432 432 

316 

255 246 

2008 2009 2010 2011 

Import Export Transit 

653 

Figure 2.9.3. Dry cargo turnover - Batumi port, 2008-2011, th.t 

Source: Batumi Sea Port, Ltd 

The above figures show that the results of the recent activities of the Batumi sea port are 

rather mixed. First, the amount of oil and oil products’ transit (i.e. the main function of the 

port) has been steadily declining. Second, container turnover has recovered well since a 

33 

Twenty-feet equivalent unit. Port container traffic measures the flow of containers from land to sea transport modes, and vice versa, in twenty-foot 

equivalent units (TEUs), a standard-size container. http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/IS.SHP.GOOD.TU. Transit of containers is not indicated separately since 

2010.


“deep dip” (approx. 4.5 times) following the 2008 war. Thus, the port has been steadily 

turning into the important regional container transportation hub. Dry cargo turnover as a 

whole has also surpassed 2008 figures, although fluctuations here have not been as 

pronounced as in case of containers. Dry cargo turnover now surpasses figures of 2002, the 

lowest point in the turnover almost 5 times. 

In addition to the above leading functions, Batumi provides passenger transportation. In 2001 

it provided transportation to approx. 21 590 persons, which is almost 1.8 times the figures for 

2008. Major direction for passenger trips is Turkey, Russia and Ukraine. Batumi – Sochi 

(Russia) destination is served by two local companies - "Express Batumi" Ltd. and "Irakli 

2008" Ltd., while Ro-Ro ferries Varna (Bulgaria) – Illichievsk (Ukraine) –Batumi is provided 

by “UBG” Ltd (Ukraine). Approx. 4/5 of all passengers have traveled between Batumi and 

Sochi. As a result of tourism development, 5 cruise ships with a total of 2030 visitors stopped 

over Batumi in 2011. 

Batumi International Airport is the second international airport in Georgia. Its new terminal 

has been in operation since May, 2007. With a total area of 4 256 m 2 , it is capable of handling 

600,000 passengers a year. It is located in a 2 km distance from Batumi, south from the city 

and in a 20 km distance from Georgian-Turkish border. Due to such location it serves as a 

domestic and international airport for north-eastern Turkey (Artvin). It is managed by TAV 

Airport Holding (Turkey) and is a hub for “Fly Georgia” company. In 2011, the airport 

handled 134 000 passengers that is 51% more than the figure of previous years. Approx. 84% 

of these passengers were international travellers. 

Ajara railroad line (34 km) provides transportation of oil and oil products as well as dry cargo 

to Batumi port. The amount of cargo transported by railway has dropped significantly (by 

approx. 20%) since 2008. On the other hand, tourism development has led to a sharp increase 

in passenger transportation, by some 30% reaching 1,061,813 persons. Although this railway 

serves domestic passenger transportation, thanks to a high demand from Armenian visitors 

special trains are arranged from Yerevan during summer months. 

The Department of Roads and Land Reclamation of Ajara has in its possession 2 959 km of 

highways, including 205 km of asphalt-concrete (approx. 7% of total), 1025 km of crushed 

stone cover and 1729 km of earth (dirt) roads. Modern roads are located factually only along 

the seaside and connect municipality centers with Batumi. There are also one 657 m long 

tunnel and 430 bridges. 

There are 64 village communities with approx. 350 villages in addition to urban settlements 

in Ajara. Thus, the commuter traffic is the most intensive here. This traffic is served by 600 

buses on a daily basis, carrying 48 000 passengers along 240 routes, on average. Ajara also 

serves interurban and international bus routes. Interurban bus routes connect the autonomy 

with all regions of Georgia, while international destinations include mainly Turkey, Greece


and Armenia. The number of passengers served by the organized traffic has been constantly 

growing. More specifically, it reached 18,794,000 in 2011, of which 96% were inter-Ajara 

passengers. 

20000 

18000 

16000 

14000 

12000 

10000 

8000 

6000 

4000 

2000 

0 

8 

1793818306 

18794 

17354 

711 669 734 1061 

11 22 23 

81 71 91 133 

Sea Railway Air Automobile 

2008 2009 2010 2011 

Figure 2.9.4. Passenger traffic in Ajara, years 2008-2011, thousand persons 

Source: Ministry of Finance and Economy of Ajara 

Ajara is especially important from the automobile transport development standpoint, since 

the 121 km existing Senaki-Poti–Sarpi road is a key highway and international transit route 

in Georgia. Today it is extremely overloaded, passes through heavily built residential and 

tourist areas of Batumi and Kobuleti, is characterized by poor road and travel conditions, 

especially for international transit traffic which in fact is mixed with the dense urban traffic 

passing through the narrow streets. Recently constructed 4 lane road tunnel near 

Makhinjauri does not alleviate this situation.


In response to the existing situation, the Government of Georgia with the financing of Asian 

Development Bank has started implementation of Ajara bypass road. 34 As a result of carrying 

out this project, Batumi and Kobuleti will be relieved from transit traffic altogether and no 

freight traffic will be allowed into settlement located along the Black sea coast. This bypass is 

going to be located to the east of Batumi and Kobuleti and consist of two parts – Kobuleti 

(Choloki-Makhinjauri) bypass and Batumi bypass. Kobuleti bypass is already under 

construction. It is a 12.4 km long section, starting from village Natanebi in Guria and ending 

in Makhinjauri, passing through 20 villages. Modernization of Chakvi -Makhindjauri 2 line 

road (with a length of 3 km), to 4 lines highway is also under way. (Please see Annex 4) 

2.10. Forestry 

The Directorate for Environmental and Natural Resources of Ajara provides the following 

data on its web-site 35 

Forests occupy 65% of the whole territory of Ajara, which is much higher than the 

Georgian average – 39%; 

Total forest fund amounts to 191 604 ha, of which 13 693 ha belongs to state natural 

reserve, 15 807 ha is a natural park, 1 991 ha – forests of potable water catchment 

areas, 12 422 ha – protective forest areas around settlements, 5 869 – river/water 

reservoir protection zone forests, 128 070 ha – soil protection and water regulation 

forests. 

The most part of the local forests – 61% grow within 1000-2000 m above sea level. More 

than half of forests occupy 31 o and steeper slopes. 

On the other hand, information provided in Ajara Strategic Development is not exactly the 

same. Total forest area in Ajara is approx. 162 104 ha, i.e. approx. 55.9% of the whole 

territory of autonomy is covered with forests. 36 Of this 45 237 ha with 16.72 mill m 3 of stock 

was represented by conifers, while 114 592 ha with 22.52 mill m 3 of stock was represented by 

broadleaf trees (see Table 1.11.1 for distribution of forest resources by municipalities). 136 

790 ha is subject to Forestry Agency of Ajara – legal entity of the public law, subordinated to 

Directorate for Environmental and Natural Resources of Ajara. 

34 

http://www.georoad.ge/?que=eng/projects&info=1627. MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE OF GEORGIA, ROADS 

DEPARTMENT’ Road Corridor Investment Program.Kobuleti Bypass Road, Kobuleti-Batumi Section and Batumi Bypass Road Design 

Project.ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT. Section 2 :Kobuleti Bypass Road (km 12+400 ~ km 31+259). FEBRUARY 2012 

35 

http://garemo-adjara.gov.ge/ge/forest/ 

36 

Probably special water protection and other similar forests are excluded from this data, in which case it can be stated that this is information about forest 

resources.


Table 2.10.1.Distribution of forest resources in Ajara by municipalities, in 2011 

Area, ha % of total Stock, m 3 % of total 

Kobuleti 23790,8 14.7 5 512 300 13.0 

Khelvachauri 23470,8 14.5 3 764 100 8.9 

Keda 37679,5 23.2 11 977 900 28.4 

Khulo 39980,3 24.7 13 954 400 33.0 

Shuakhevi 37182.2 22.9 7 034 600 16.7 

Total 162103.6 100.0 42 243 300 100 

Source: Directorate for Environmental and Natural Resources of Ajara 

Ajara underwent a process of intensive deforestation during 1990s and up to 2004, although 

the real extent of the process has hardly ever been properly evaluated and quantified. At 

least no appropriate data or document is available for further analysis. Data on forest 

resources in Georgia was provided back in 1999 in book titled “Natural Resources of Georgia 

and Problems of Their Utilization”. The publication provides data on the State-owned forest 

resources of Georgia, Ajara included (p. 538), which amounted to 187 726 ha in 1983. This 

figure more or less corresponds with the same type of data provided in Ajara Strategic 

Development document. Based on this assumption we may very cautiously assume that Ajara 

might have lost approx. 25.6 thousand ha of forest during 30 years. 

On the other hand, logging by population was not an option here for years. According to 

Ajara Strategic Development such logging (dubbed “social logging”) was again allowed in 

2011. It is regulated by the Decree #242 of August 20, 2010 of the Government of Georgia 

“On the Approval of Forest Use Procedures”. 

119 928 m 3 firewood were allocated for logging in Ajara , of which 71 181 m 3 or 59.4% were 

actually procured (see table 1.11.2.). The main reasons why the allocated wood is not 

appropriate is that the majority of such lots are very hard to access (far from settlements, 

roads, situated on steep slopes, etc.), plus it is very difficult to remove logs and transport 

them. To alleviate this situation 13.2 km access roads were built in Ajara in 2011, although 

this clearly was not enough. On the other hand, as experience of analyzing forestry sector 

activities in the other parts of Georgia shows, it is rather risky to rely on the data provided by 

forestry authorities both on the local and federal level. This sector is the subject of constant 

controversy, notoriously corrupt and mismanaged. 

Table 2.10.2. Logging harvest in Ajara, in 2011 

Allocated (m 3 ) Procured (m 3 ) Procured as % of allocated 

Kobuleti 10 766 8 035 78 % 

Khelvachauri 19 805 12 408 62 %


Keda 24 693 14 453 58 % 

Khulo 25 828 14 928 57 % 

Shuakhevi 38 737 21 378 55 % 

Total 11 9828 71 181 59 % 

Source: Directorate for Environmental and Natural Resources of Ajara 

2.11. Tourism 

Under the administration of President Saakashvili, Ajara was purposefully developed as a 

tourism hub of the South Caucasus region, as least partly in order to compensate the loss of 

Abkhazia tourism and recreation zone. Almost 44% of private investments were made in 

Ajara’s tourism sector in 2011. On the other hand, local climatic conditions do not especially 

encourage recreation in this area. Ajara is characterized by humid subtropical climate. 

Annual precipitation in the Black sea coastal area reaches 2 700 mm. Only July and August 

are characterized by an adequate weather conditions for recreation. Still as a result of 

persistent government policies parts of a coastal zone have recently undergone a visible 

makeover, especially Batumi, which now possesses a totally redesigned downtown and 7 km 

long seaside boulevard. A number of world class hotel operators were either already 

established their presence in Batumi (Sheraton for instance) or these hotels are under 

development (Kempinski Hotel Batumi). Donald Trump also decided to build his trademark 

Trump Tower in Batumi – the only such project in the region. 

In order to provide further incentive for tourism development the Government of Georgia in 

2011 established “Free Tourist Zone in Kobuleti, which consists of 11.3 ha of development 

area with 30 hotels. Special provisions for this zone include: 

 

 

 

 

Free Hotel Master Plan 

No Profit and Property taxes for 15 years 

Fully provided engineering utility networks and corresponding outdoor infrastructure 

such as electricity, gas, water and new roads. 

Investment range of hotels is anticipated at 1-3 million USD. 

According to 2011 data, a total of 1 319 513 visitors were registered in Ajara, which is 35% 

higher than in 2010 and 42.8% higher than in 2006. Of these, about 64% were domestic and 

the rest – international visitors. These visitors made up 17% of all foreigners, who came to 

Georgia in 2011. 88% of these people visited Batumi and Kobuleti municipalities. Almost half


– 48% of all visitors in Ajara came from Turkey. Armenia provided approx. 22%, Azerbaijan 

– 12%, Iran – 6, Ukraine – 2% of visitors. 

Local hotels’ capacity grew by 87% in 2011 as compared to 2006. They are able to 

accommodate a total of 51.1 thousand persons. Out of this capacity, more than 80% is 

provided by family type facilities. It was anticipated to add 4 000 more places in the hotel 

sector in 2012. The average annual utilization level of these facilities is only about 16.6%, 

with 52.6% at the peak of the season in July-August. In Batumi visitors were served by 126 

public catering facilities, in Kobuleti – 120, of which 90 were functioning only during high 

season. 

In 2010 Department of Tourism and Recreation of Adjara carried out marketing research, 

which led to the following major conclusions: 

 

 

 

The majority of visitors to Ajara were people in the age group of 20-29 (43.3%) and 

30-39 (32.7%). 

The vast majority of visitors in almost all age groups (more than 85%) came to Ajara 

for recreation. In 40-55year old age group, business visitors made only about 15%, 

which is considerably higher than in any other age group. 

56% of visitors stayed in Ajara for 1- 5 days. Such period was especially popular 

among Turkish visitors – 76%. Armenians mostly favored 5-10-day (36%) and 10-20- 

day long stays (32%). 

Thus, whatever the government plans were for Ajara tourist development, it actually is 

formed as a low end recreational area for mainly local visitors, who cannot afford the better 

quality Turkish or other European resorts. 

2.12. Trends in human activity 

The existing trends in human activity in Ajara are described in detail in the above parts of 

the report. As to the future development trends, they are rather difficult to foresee after 

change of the government in Georgia in October 2012. New administration is openly averse 

to many activities and plans of the previous one and may amend or altogether cancel many of 

such. Still at least we may assume that the general trend of constructing HPPs will continue 

with all the pending negative consequences for the local environment, especially for the 

Black Sea coastal zone. Other main economic functions like transportation, agriculture and 

industry will be furthered, although exact details are still to be seen. The major changes will 

undoubtedly affect tourism sector development, which was the top priority for the previous 

administration.


CHAPTER 3: PRESSURES AND IMPACT 

ANALYSIS IN THE PILOT BASIN


3. PRESSURES AND IMPACT ANALYSIS IN THE PILOT BASIN 

Introduction 

The present chapter describes anthropogenic pressures 37 and impacts 38 on surface and ground 

waters. This assessment is based on the EU Water Framework Directive and is made through 

application of special methods or logical instruments that are adjusted to specific tasks and 

circumstances. All these approaches and tools are based on the processing and analysis of 

water monitoring data or represent GIS models that allow for revealing directly or indirectly 

pressures and impacts on water resources. Unfortunately, in Georgia monitoring data are 

scarce and outdated. Therefore, we have only applied general tools and approaches that have 

allowed us to extrapolate findings received through the given analysis. Apart from this, we 

have used all available data and information, including empirical data, experts’ judgment and 

modelling. 

In terms of structure, the chapter 3 is divided into four major parts and is grouped in 

accordance with the following topics: 

 

 

 

 

Diffused sources of pollution 

Point sources of pollution 

Water abstractions and flow regulation 

Physical and morphological changes of water objects 

The table below reflects interrelation between driving forces and water objects in the 

Chorokhi-Adjaristskali basin. This matrix has helped identify potential pressures. For 

determining the linkages we have used different types of information that is described in 

more detail in following chapters. In general, this analysis is based on experts’ judgment and 

critical analysis. 

Table 3.1. Linkages of major driving forces with water objects of the pilot river basin 

Driving forces 

Water Body Category 

Pollution 

Rivers Lakes Coastal/Transitional Groundwater 

Household x x 

Industry (operating, historical) x x 

Agriculture x x 

37 Changes in water objects caused by human activities are regarded as “pressures” 

38 Side effects disturbing the ecological balance of water objects caused by anthropogenic pressures are called as 

“impacts”


Aquiculture /fish farming 

x 

Forestry 

Impervious areas 

Mines, quarries 

Dump, storage sites x x 

Transport 

x 

Alteration of hydrologic regime 

Abstraction (agro, industry, household) x x 

Flow regulation works 

Hydropower works x x 

Fish farming 

x 

Cooling 

Flow enhancement (transfers) 

Morphology (changes in) 

Agricultural activities 

x 

Urban settlements 

x 

Industrial areas x x 

Flood protection 

x 

Gravel /Sand extraction x x 

Navigation 

Biology 

Fishing/angling 

Fish/shellfish farming 

x 

Emptying ponds 

3.1 Water Abstractions and River Flow Regulation 

3.1.1 Drinking and Industrial Water Abstractions 

In accordance with 2011 data, of total water abstractions, about 8% accounted for 

groundwater abstractions and 92% for surface water abstractions. 

Chorokhi and Kintrishi River filtrates are characterized by abundant water resources. They 

are used for drinking water supply to the cities of Batumi and Kobuleti. In 2010, total of 

5,826 thousand m 3 was abstracted from the Chorokhi River filtrates and 2,671 thousand m 3 – 

from the Kintrishi River filtrates. An independent water user consumed 840 thousand m 3 of 

ground water. Of total ground water abstractions, about 92.1% was used by local users and 

communal services.


Batumi is a major drinking and industrial water user. This is supported by 2011 data, where 

Batumi used 81% of the region’s total water, abstracted for drinking purposes. The rest of the 

water users, both urban and rural together consumed 6208 thousand m 3 or 19%. This 

indicates the presence of serious problems with the drinking water supply to Ajara 

population, particularly to the people living in mountainous regions. 

The second largest water user is the city of Kobuleti. It should be also noted that Batumi 

water supply system abstracts water from Chakvistksali and Korolistskali intake facilities, 

while that of the city of Kobuleti – from the filtrates of the Kintrishi River. Stemming from 

this, we can conclude that the rivers utilized by major water users are under the certain 

pressure. This issue needs further detailed investigation. (Please see Annex 11) 

Under the conditions of intensive water abstarction, the river flow, including its volume and 

velocity changes. The decrease in the water quantity leads to the destruction of the integrity 

of natural ecosystems and reduction of biodiversity. Unfortunately, water monitoring in the 

pilot river basin and in the entire Ajara region is carried out only at a few gauging sites. This 

does not allow for comprehensive assessment of the current status of water quantity 

(discharge) and quality. Therefore, for the purpose of this study we have used data obtained 

through field observations and available in the archives. 

The Korolistskali River is fed by snow, rain and ground waters. The water regime is 

characterized with weak summer floods and year-round flash floods caused by heavy rains. 

The mount Mtirala (1,381,9m), located on the eastern water divide of the river is known for 

the highest values of annual precipitations – 4,519mm. 

Regardless of this, average annual flow of the Korolistskali River is 0.76 m 3 /sec, regulated 

through water abstraction for drinking and industrial water uses at a rate of 0.4 m 3 /sec. From 

this data we can conclude that average annual flow is decreased by 52% as a result of water 

abstractions, clearly indicating on the pressures and impacts on the Korolistskali River.


Chakvistskali water supply station 

A similar situation exists in the Chakvistskali River Basin. However, the river has much 

higher water flow and more stable seasonal run-off than the Korolistskali River. More 

specifically, the multi-year average flow of the Chakvistskali River is 9.89 m 3 /sec, while the 

designed capacity of the intake facility is only 1.15 m 3 /sec. Stemming from this, the 

Chakvistskali River only loses 11.6%, which is a sanitary norm. However, when minimum 

river discharge goes as low as 1.172 m 3 /sec, the losses in the Chakvistkskali River may reach 

66.8%. This may have serious impacts on the riverine ecosystems. 

Unfortunately, there are no reliable water quantity monitoring data for the Korolistskali and 

Chakvistskali Rivers. Therefore, we have used experts’ judgment and logical analysis. 

Changes in water temperature. Regardless of the strong dependence of the water 

temperature on natural factors such as: flow velocity, air temperature, algae presence, water 

turbidity, shade, inflow of ground waters, this parameter significantly depends on the total 

river flow and natural regulation. Stemming from this, decrease in water flow in the excess 

of the sanitary norm, leads to the change in water temperature affecting the biological and 

chemical characteristics of the river. This may also result in destruction of zoo- and 

phytoplankton that will ultimately negatively impact aquatic biota and ecosystems. More


specifically, as a result of the change of water temperature the following effects are expected 

to occur: 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in DO concentration 

Change in water pH 

Change in algae and phytoplankton blooming periods 

Alteration of the structure of the habitats of aquatic fauna 

Alteration of the species composition, structure and diversity 

Alteration of sediment flow. Fine sediments of the river, indicated by suspended solids that 

get into the water as a result of the erosion of river banks, determine the water turbidity or 

the water transparency. Changes in water flow lead to the alteration of river sedimentation 

that directly impacts physical parameters of the river. Water turbidity has an impact on the 

river bed and bank erosion, algae blooms, changes in water level leading to the alteration of 

water temperature. In addition, water turbidity affects the absorption of the sunlight by 

water that has a strong impact on aquatic ecosystems. With an increase in sunlight 

penetration, photosynthesis is intensified leading to algae bloom and propagation. 

 

 

Suspended solids absorb the heat that leads to the decrease in water temperature and 

the increase in DO. 

Decrease in suspended solids results in activation of riverbed erosion processes that 

affects the habitats of benthic organisms. 

3.1.2 Water Abstraction for Irrigation 

In the Black Sea Coastal Zone of Ajara, the rivers are not used for irrigation purposes. 

Agricultural lands here are watered by rainfall owing to the high amount of atmospheric 

precipitations. Small-scale irrigation systems are only present in the Adjaristkali River 

Basin, where atmospheric precipitations are relatively low. 

Irrigation water abstracted from the Adjaristskali River and its tributaries, is supplied to the 

local population to water fields of corn and kidney beans, orchards, vineyards and pastures. 

The average irrigation water volume for corn fields is 700m 3 /ha. 

Existing irrigation water supply systems are very difficult to control and there are a number 

of illegal canals (underground pipes, rubber hose pipes, etc.) there. Due to the absence of 

hydrotechnical structures on the river, water polluted with various chemical substances 

return to the river through the soil seepage/leakage. Water abstractions occur mostly in the 

middle section. Here, due to the relevant flow gradient and fall, irrigation water flows by 

gravitational force and waters small-size agricultural lands.


As it was mentioned above, due to specific climate conditions of the region only a small area 

of state-owned agricultural lands was irrigated during the Soviet period. Currently, the 

majority of the canals are damaged and collective farms are submitted to individual farmers. 

It is not economically viable to rehabilitate these systems. 

Thus, irrigation water use does not represent a significant pressure on water resources in the 

pilot river basin; though some of the rivers still fall under the high risk category taking into 

consideration a summary effect of various pressures. For instance, the Chakvistskali River 

that undergoes the pressure from abstraction for drinking water is also impacted by irrigation 

water use. 

3.1.1 Water Abstractions and Flow Regulation for Hydropower Generation 

Rivers flowing in the Ajara Autnomous Republic have high hydropower potential, which is 

not fully utilized. In 1930s of the last century, derivation type Adjaristskali hydropower 

plant (“Atshesi”) with 16.0MW installed capacity was put into operation. The HPP 

withdraws water amounting to 45 m 3 /sec from the intake facility located on the Adjaristskali 

River, close to Batumi-Akhlatsikhe road. From the intake structure, water is delivered to two 

turbines located in the power house, through a 2,860m long and 3.9m diameter derivation 

tunnel.


Derivation type Adjaristskali hydropower plant “Atshesi” 

During the same period, a new 120 horse power capacity hydropower plant on the 

Chirukhistskali River, village Dvani and a very small capacity hydropower plant on the 

Skhalta River were put into operation. 

Currently, the following HPPs operate in Ajara: i) Kinkisha (0.74 MW installed capacity); ii) 

Sanalia (3.0MW installed capacity); iii) Achi (1.03 installed capacity) and; iv) Machakhela 

(1.43 MW installed capacity), located in the village Kedkedi and operational since 1956. 

It is planned to construct two derivation type HPPs, their intakes will be located at 235m and 

328m above sea level respectively. These HPPs are currently being designed. Furthermore, It 

is planned to construct three new derivation type HPPs on the Adjaristskali River: 

Shuakhevi, Koromi and Khertvisi. They are being designed by Norwegian company “Clean 

Energy Invest”. 

Most likely, the derivation type HPPs will not exert significant pressures on the Adjaristskali 

River. However, they should be taken into consideration as risk factors. In accordance with 

Adjaristskali Georgia, LLC, it is planned to start construction activities in 2013. Below is 

given the description and analysis of potential pressures of planned Shuakhevi, Kromkheti 

and Khertvisi HPPs.


Shuakhevi HPP 

 

 

Abstraction and the return of high volumes of water in the lower course of the river 

may cause the morphological alteration of the river and the loss of microorganisms. 

However, it will not impact spawning habitats; 

There is a risk of impeding the fish up stream movement in the waters of the 

Adjaristskali River and its tributaries. The flow velocity is estimated at 1.5 m/sec that 

will create a barrier to the movement of some fish species. However, this will depend 

on the dissipation of the flow velocity in the receiving waters. 

Pressures on the river hydrology in the lower reaches may be considered as significant and 

ecological impacts may be considered as moderate. 

Overall, Shuakhevi HPP will significantly reduce river discharge in upstream and 

downstream areas of the river that will have a negative impact on fish populations and in 

general, on aquatic ecology. 

Koromkheti HPP 

The discharge of the high volume of the outlet water may hinder fish movement. Currently, 

the flow velocity is estimated at 4-5 m/sec that will impede fish migration. However, this 

will depend upon the variation of flow velocity as well as upon the local and seasonal 

hydrological conditions. 

Stemming from above, we may draw a conclusion that Koromkheti HPP will have a 

significant hydrological impact on water bodies unless adequate measures are carried out to 

mitigate negative impacts on fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. 

Khertvisi HPP – The Adjaristskali River 

In accordance with the report of Adjaristskali Georgia, LCC, significant reduction of average 

minimum discharge of the river is expected to occur. Most of the time (from June to March) 

this value will be 5.2 m 3 /sec with few exceptions (flash floods). Spring floods will be 

maintained until May and will decrease significantly afterwards. Thus, pressures and impacts 

on river hydrology will increase that will negatively affect fish and other aquatic biota. 

Khertvili HPP – The Chorokhi River


Potential hydrological changes cannot be assessed owing to the absence of water discharge 

data for the Chorokhi River that is regulated from the Turkish side. Apart from this, it is 

planned to construct a number of dams at the section of the Machakhela River confluence. 

There is no data on these dams and, potential hydrological changes in the Chorokhi River are 

unknown. Thus, it is impossible to identify likely hydrological changes of the Chorokhi 

River at the point of the Machakhela River confluence, until the operation of a new HPP. 

Taking into consideration the high sensitivity of this section of the river due to the presence 

of internationally protected species, the pressures should be considered as significant. 

Existing driving forces, their pressures and impacts are summarized in the table below: 

Table 3.2. Existing driving forces and their pressures and impacts caused due to water abstraction and 

flow regulation 

Driving Forces Location Pressure Impact 

Change in water 

temperature 

DO concentration is changed; Water pH is 

changed; Algae and phytoplankton blooming 

period is changed; Structure of habitats of 

aquatic species is changed; Species structure, 

composition and diversity is changed 

Water 

abstractions for 

drinking, 

industrial and 

hydropower 

water uses 

Korolistksali; 

Chakvistskali; 

Adjaristksali 

Change in 

sediment flow 

Sunlight penetration is increased resulting in 

an intensification of photosynthesis and, 

algae bloom and propagation; Heat is 

absorbed by suspended solids resulting in 

reduction of water temperature and increase 

of DO; Suspended solids are reduced causing 

activation of river bed processes and 

ultimately, alteration of benthic organisms. 

Increase in 

nutrient 

concentrations 

Alteration of composition of floodplain and 

aquatic vegetation


3.2 Diffused Sources of Pollution 

Agriculture is one of the major sources of diffuse pollution due to intensive use of fertilizers 

that results in soil contamination by various pollutants. Two main parameters are associated 

with diffused sources of pollution: phosphorus and nitrogen. These substances end up in 

rivers and lakes as a result of natural water circulation. It has to be noted that in the 

Chorokhi-Adjaristskali pilot basin, agriculture is not the only source of diffuse pollution. 

Other important sources are transportation and controlled waste disposal sites (landfills). 

3.2.1 Agriculture 

There are about 70,000 farms in Ajara. Agricultural lands are good for growing tea, citrus, 

corn, potatoes and tobacco as well as for livestock grazing. In high mountainous regions of 

Ajara, including Khulo and Shuakhevi municipalities due to a harsh climate, the major 

branch of the agriculture is sheep raising, followed by potato growing. Tobacco is also 

produced in small quantities. 

In Khulo municipality, the major agriculture activity is potato production. In accordance 

with 2004 data, potatoes were grown on the land area of 1,167 ha and a total of 25,000 tons 

of output were produced. Cornfields and tobacco plantations occupy the largest areas of 

arable lands. Other agricultural activities are orchardry and apiculture (beekeeping). There 

are 49,000 cattle and 6,000 sheep and goats in Khulo municipality. Summer pastures occupy 

about 16,000 ha. 

Agriculture is a leading economic sector in Shuakhevi municipality. Major crops are corn, 

potato, kidney beans, vegetables and fruit. Orchardry and pomology are well-developed in 

Keda municipality. People pick blackberries and grow tobacco and grapes. They are also 

engaged in animal husbandry and apiculture. 

In Khelvachauri municipality, major cultures are tea and citrus. Animal husbandry is also 

well-developed. High mountainous regions are short of land resources due to high 

population density. In accordance with the local government, on average, an individual 

farmer holds 0.25-0.75ha farm land. 

Khulo, Shuakhevi and Keda municipalities are highly susceptible to natural disasters, 

particularly to landslides and soil erosion, induced by human activities such as overgrazing, 

and deforestation. Landslides and soil erosion directly result in the loss of arable lands and 

pastures. Land scarcity, erosion processes, steep slopes of mountains are the limiting factors 

for agriculture development. Small areas of cultivated lands, low capacities of Agri-


industries, obsolete technologies, absence of subsidies and unpredictable market add to these 

limiting factors. 

In Ajara, each average household owns 4-5 heads of cow and several heads of sheep or goat. 

One household farm hardly meets the subsistence needs of the family and as well, the needs 

of its livestock. Given land cultivation is the major source of income of mountain 

communities, they face serious poverty issues. Therefore, migration to other regions of 

Georgia is a common pattern. Stemming from above, we can draw a conclusion that 

agriculture is very weakly developed in the region thus, having practically no impact on 

surface and ground water bodies. 

Unfortunately, due to the lack of data we cannot estimate the concentration of nutrients in 

the rivers of the pilot basin drained from agricultural lands. Though, it should be noted that 

in the upstream area of the basin ecosystems, the biodiversity is in good condition, indicating 

the satisfactory current ambient water quality. 

3.2.2 Solid Household Waste 

As of 1 January 2012 there are two landfills operating on the territory of the pilot basin as 

licensed by the government bodies. However, none of them respond to environmental and 

planning requirements. Landfills are of open type and unregulated, as they are not fenced 

and protected from trespassers. Both landfills occupy a total of 23.0 hectares of land. 

Part of the Kobuleti landfill used for waste disposal consists of two sections and 

geomorphologically corresponds to coastline plains. One of the waste disposal sections is 

located on the right bank of the Cholokhi River, at its utmost proximity, while the other is a 

kilometer away from the center of Kobuleti, extended over flat terrain. The landfill has been 

operating since 2007 on the territory of the former Choloki cattle farm and occupies 2.0 

hectares of land. (Please see Annex 9) 

On the territory of Keda Municipality, solid household waste was collected only from the 

population of Keda, where the total number of residents was 1,500 persons based on 2012 

data.


Batumi landfill 

Along with this, in Shuakevi Municipality the waste was collected and disposed in the 

landfill for 800 residents of Shuakhevi, and for 2,000 residents of Khulo settlement of Khulo 

Municipality. 

Keda, Shuakhevi and Khulo municipal landfills serving small towns were situated in the 

gorge of the Adjaristskali River till 1 May 2012 and covered 1.0 hectares of land. 

Batumi landfill (also serving the population of Khelvachauri Municipality) has been 

operating since 1965 and is more than 45 years old. It covers the area of 19.2 hectares, and is 

situated in Adlia settlement, Batumi, on the right bank of the Chorokhi River, in its water 

protection zone. 

It should be noted that although landfills are not operational (please see the Waste Disposal 

map for the details), they still represent the sources of diffuse pollution, as the household and 

industrial waste that had been collected for years now produce harmful substances, which 

drain down to the Chorokhi and Adjaristskali Rivers through atmospheric precipitation and 

ground waters. Regretfully, to prove this assumption it is impossible without conducting 

chemical analysis of the water samples from the Adjaristskali and Chorokhi Rivers. However, 

we can speculate that in the conditions of high precipitation, due to steep terrain and utmost 

proximity to the river, seepage does occur. 

3.2.3 Roads and Transport 

There are two major highways crossing over the territory of the pilot basin, the first one is 

the highway of international significance running along the coastline in the lower course of 

the basin, whilst the second one is of national significance, running along the entire


Adjaristskali River. Based on socio-economic data, Ajara region is overloaded with transit 

movement, however, the volume of pollutants produced by vehicles and leaked into the soil 

as well as its chemical composition is unknown. 

However, according to the expert judgments, some concentration of Cadmium Cd (diesel) 

and Lead Pb (petrol) could be identified by roadside of major rivers. Hence, we can assume 

that this type of diffusive contamination could also be taking place in the Adjaristskali River 

and the Black Sea area. Chemical analysis of the river water could prove the existence of 

such pollution, however such testing has not been conducted yet. (Please see Annex 4) 

Water is considered chemically contaminated if the concentration of toxic chemicals 

contained in it is higher than in the environment and has negative biological effects on living 

organisms. Among the potential toxins in the downstream area of the pilot basin are 

substances like nitrates, phosphates, heavy metals and metalloids. As a rule, these substances 

infiltrate the water from landfills, agricultural areas and highways. It should also be noted 

that environmental pollution along the highways as a result of human activities should be 

high as well, exceeding the norms set by the Georgian legislation. 

Based on expert opinion, the following linkages have been identified showing pressures and 

impacts from diffused sources of pollution, as described in the table below. 

Table 3.3. Possible pressures and impacts of diffused sources of pollution 

Driving forces Location Pressure Impact 

Agricultural production; 

Solid household waste; 

Roads and transport; 


River; 


River; 

Black sea 

coast 

Agricultural 

fertilisers 

Leachates from 

the landfills 

Roadside heavy 

metal 

Changes in the composition and 

condition of algae 

Survival, reproductive and competition 

capacities of the organisms are 

changed


3.3 Point Sources of Pollution 

There is only one Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) operating on the territory of 

Chorokhi-Adjaristskali pilot basin and Ajara Autonomous Republic in general. It is situated 

near the village of Adlia and serves Batumi, Gonio, Sparti and Kvariati areas. On the one 

hand, the population of these towns/villages constitutes 38.5% of the total basin population, 

which means that a major part of the sewage is being treated and its pressure on the 

environment has been reduced since 2012. However it should also be noted that the 

remaining 61.5% comes on the other coastline and mountainous areas, where treatment 

facilities are not in place and waste water is discharged directly into the sea, ground surface 

or streams. 

It is added by the waste water from small farms and enterprises and all of the above factors 

together create pressures, which are difficult to quantify, as there are no water and soil 

quality controls carried out on the territory of the basin. 

The sole source of water quality data is the Laboratory of the Ajara Agriculture Ministry in 

Batumi, which provided the data on the water testing results for the past one year period. 

The majority of water samples were taken by the laboratory from the coastline areas and 

covers information on the wastewater discharged by various enterprises. Please see the Table 

3.4. Based on this data, it became possible to identify point sources of industrial and 

communal pollution, as well as resulting pressures and impacts. 

Table 3.4. Main point sources of pollution in the pilot basin 

# 

Suspended 

Location 

pH solids mg/l 

Total 

Nitrogen 

mg/l 

Total 

Phosphate 

mg/l 

BOD5 

1 Gonio (enterprise) 8.8 40 18 0.6 28 130 

2 Batumi (Cleaning and sanitation) 9 50 12 1.5 23 105 

3 Khelvachauri industrial zone 8.6 27.1 2.2 0.1 10 24.1 

4 Khelvachauri (Food industry) 8 12 8 0.5 12 30 

5 Chakvi (Tourist recreation zone) 8.5 30 10 0.6 20 90 

6 Kakhaberi (Batumi International Airport) 8.1 15 0.2 0 8 16 

7 Keti water supply system 8.5 70 12 1.6 45 160 

8 Shuakhevi water supply system 8 75 14 2 43 180 

9 Khulo water supply system 8.5 45 16 2.4 45 160 

11 Gonio (Tourist infrustructure) 10 20 18 2 28 125 

12 Batumi (Trade infrustructure/fish market) 5.1 20 4.5 1 28 127 

13 Territory around the ariport 8.5 27.1 5 0.2 16.3 60.5 

14 Ureki (Enterprize) 8.5 45 17 0.4 28 100 

15 Makhinjauri (Railway station) 8 10 0.4 0 4 9 

COD


16 Makhinjauri (Enterprise) 8 10 0.2 0.02 10 20 

17 Adjaristskali (Enterprise) 8 40 5.8 0.8 25 60 

18 Batumi (Enterprise) 9 15 2.7 0.09 30 70 

19 Adlia (Cleaning and sanitation) 9 40 9 1 18 40 

20 Batumi (Cleaning and sanitation) 8.5 17 9 1 20 80 

21 Khelvachauri (Food industry) 8.5 30 1.5 0 8 20 

Source: Directorate of Environment and Natural Resources of AJara AR; Laboratory of the Ministry of 

Agriculture of Ajara AR, 2012 

It should also be noted that based on the Batumi example, sewage, despite the operation of 

WWTP, still pollutes sea waters, as the wastewater treatment facilities are not fully 

operational and biological treatment mechanisms are not yet in place. Hence, it could be 

concluded that sewage poses moderate pressure on the coastal waters. (Please see Annex 3) 

Table 3.5. Quality of effluent discharges in the Adlia WWTP 

Location BOD COD Suspended Solids Total Nitrogen Total Phosphate pH 

mg/l 

mg/l 

mg/l 

Adlia WWTP (inflow) 40 155 50 20 2 7.3 

Adlia WWTP (outflow) 20 100 10 10.5 1 7.1 

Source: Laboratory of the Ajara Autonomous Republic Ministry of Agriculture 

In the rest of the coastline towns and resorts, sewerage systems are not equipped with 

treatment facilities and hence, the wastewater flows directly into the sea, which itself causes 

high pressure on the local sea ecosystem. 

There are dozens of fish farms operating on the territory of the pilot basin (mainly breeding 

trout). For example, there are over 50 small, medium and large fish farms in the Keda 

Municipality for breeding Rainbow (or salmon) Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)). Breeding this 

type of fish is extremely difficult, as the quality of water in terms of physical and chemical 

composition, should be equal to that of streams and tributaries, where water is abstracted 

from. There is a constant inflow and outflow of the water in the fish farms, as their territory 

is limited, the quality of water at the wastewater discharge points change insignificantly. In 

addition, it should also be noted that this type of fish farms do not use herbicides or other 

chemicals, as is the case in some other fish farms operating pond systems in other parts of 

Georgia. Hence, the water outflows from the fish farms do not pose significant pressures on 

the water ecosystems. (Please see Annex 10) 

In conclusion it can be stated that point sources of pollution in the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali 

pilot basin are mainly linked to water pollution from the food industry and sewerage 

systems. The latter increases the concentration of various pathogenic microorganisms and 

bacteria in the water, which contributes to increased consumption of oxygen in water and 

the amount of food substances. This process stimulates algae bloom, which further increases


the consumption of oxygen in water as a result of the algae decline and rotting. This further 

reduces the concentration of oxygen in the water. Against this backdrop, the water 

ecosystem is subject to great pressure, which often results in the loss of biodiversity and 

degradation of species. 

Table 3.6. Point pollution pressures and impact 


Sewerage 

system, food 

industry 

Adjaristskali River; 

Chorokhi River; 

Kintrishi River; 

Black sea coastal 

waters 

Waste water; 

organic waste 

from the food 

industry 

Altered composition and condition of algae; 

Survival, reproductive and competition 

capacity of organisms is changed; 

Increased water nutrients 

Fish and intervertebrate decline 

Reduced levels of oxygen in water 

3.4 Physical and Morphological Changes of Water Objects 

Physical or morphological changes of water objects in the Machakhela-Adjaristskali pilot 

basin, are mainly associated with hydropower plants, regulating dams, extraction of sand and 

gravel and fish-farms. 

Firstly, one should consider derivation type hydro power plant on the Adjaristskali River 

(“Acharhesi”) located within the area of the pilot basin. Its installed capacity is 16.0 MW. Its 

headwork installed near Batumi-Akhaltsikhe highway extracts 45 m 3 /sec water and supplies 

it through 2860 m. long and 3.9m diameter derivation tunnel to two turbines installed in 

the powerhouse. The HPP was launched in 1940s, hence it lacks fish-friendly constructions. 

Ecologically, it practically divides the Adjaristskali River into two parts, which is negatively 

affecting the river ichthyofauna and the entire water ecosystem. 

In the same period, 120 horse power HPP of the village Digvani on the Chirukhistkali River 

and the mini HPP on the Mskhalta River were also put into operation on the territory of the 

Ajara Autonomous Republic. Currently, there are the following HPPs operating in Ajara: 

Kinkisha HPP (0.74 MW capacity), Sanalia HPP (2.0 MW), Adjaristskali HPP (1.03 MW) and 

Machakhela HPP (1.43 MW), which has been operating in the village of Kedkeda since 1956. 

The majority of these HPPs do not generate electricity, though the constructions are in place 

and they put some pressure on the river ecosystems. For example, similar to Adjaristskali


HPP, Machakhela HPP has small dam, which in low flow period becomes a barrier to fish 

migration. 

Apart from HPPs in the pilot basin, there are also concrete river bank reinforcement 

structures for flood protection (please see the Energy and Infrastructure Map for the details), 

which, like HPP dams negatively affects water ecosystems. 

For ensuring protection of populations and to maintain their resilience, fish and other water 

organisms require movement between water habitats, which are linked to very long 

distances. 

Regulation of the river flow with flood control engineering structures (levees, dikes, etc.) or 

water reservoirs create physical barriers or physical difficulties for water organisms, which in 

most cases causes decreases in the number of populations or even complete extinction. The 

example of this is some of the species from the pilot basin, such as Black sea salmon, 

migrating from the sea to the source of the Adjaristskali River for spawning, which is of vital 

importance for the preservation of these species. Hence, the reduction of their population 

can cause degradation of biodiversity and ecosystems. 

Construction area in the Chorokhi River 

Consequently, planned and already existing levees and dams in Machakhela-Adjaristskali 

River Basin represent significant pressure on the water and coastline ecosystems.


Such type of pressures in the pilot basin have the following impacts: 

• Fragmentation of habitats and fish populations 

• Degradation of reproduction and biodiversity 

• Reduced nutrition for terrestrial species depending on the water ecosystems 

In addition to flood control engineering structures and water reservoirs there are multiple 

fish farms in the pilot basin. Based on the data available, the latter does not represent a 

barrier to water species, as the ponds are built outside water objects and are linked to streams 

and rivers through small channels or water pump pipes. Hence, fish farm ponds do not affect 

water objects. 

Along with the other driving forces in the Chorokhi-Ajaratskali pilot basin, extraction of 

sand and gravel (please see the Industry Map for the details) is also very important factor for 

environmental impact, since such economic activity is widespread on the river banks of 

Ajara. (Please see Annex 3) 

Over-extraction of sand and gravel for industrial purposes from the river beds causes 

degradation of the entire river, as the physical reduction of alluvial sediments constituting 

the river bed causes not only bank erosion, but also deepening of the river beds, widening of 

its estuary with the sea, causing significant hydro-morphological processes. 

Apart from hydro-morphological changes, over-extraction of sand and gravel also poses 

threat to engineering installations, bridges and roads running along the river banks, as well 

as to the system of ground waters consumed by the local population. 

Over-extraction of sand and gravel also negatively affects aquatic and riparian ecosystems, 

which are under significant pressure due to river bed degradation and instable banks. These 

processes can have a cumulative effect of biodiversity degradation and disruption of the 

entire river ecosystem balance. Considering the above, the process of sand and gravel 

extraction can be divided into 3 parts according to its negative pressures: 

Physical 

Large-scale extraction of inert materials (please see the Industry map for the details) causes 

changes in the form of the river bottoms and beds, which results in the following impacts: 1. 

Erosion and washing out of river banks; 2. Flooding of nearby territory and installations; 3. 

Upstream erosion, caused by the increased steepness of the slopes and flow velocity; 4. 

Change in downstream river bank formation (sedimentation), deteriorating structure and 

habitats of the riverbed.


Water quality 

Poor planning (which is frequent in the pilot basin), improper ore mining and extraction 

process results in uncontrolled spilling of silt and fuel-lubricants (from mechanized 

installations). As a result, water quality deteriorates and water ecosystem is negatively 

affected. 

Ecological 

Extraction of the sand and gravel causing heavy damage to the river substrate, water 

turbidity and destruction of riparian vegetation, results in negative ecological consequences 

which are expressed in the following impacts: reduced area of habitats, reduced light and 

nutrition for water species and primary production caused by increased amounts of 

suspended solids. 

It should be noted that hydro-morphological changes in the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali pilot 

basin is one of the most widespread and significant factors affecting the environment, which 

is visually formulated in the following table. 

Table 3.7. Pressures and impact caused by hydro-morphological changes 


Hydro power; 

Water regulation; 

River flow 

fragmentation by 

dams/levees 

Fragmentation of habitats and fish 

populations; Reduced reproduction 

and genetic biodiversity; Reduced 

nutrition for terrestrial species 

dependent on the aquatic species; 

Extraction of sand 

and gravel 

Adjaristskali, 

Chorokhi, 

Korolistskali, 

Kintrishi 

Bank erosion; 

changes in the river 

bed structure 

through 

accumulation of 

sediments 

Changes in the 

physical and 

chemical 

composition of water 

Increased sediment flow and water 

turbidity 

Salt water intrusion into ground 

waters 

Damaged water 

substrata 

Reduced coastal and benthic 

habitats.


3.5 Conclusion 

In the given chapter we have tried to describe and analyze athropogenic pressures and 

impacts on the surface and ground waters of the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali pilot basin. It is 

noteworthy that despite the scarcity and the inaccuracy of monitonring data,we have still 

managed to identify significant pressures and resulting impacts. Certainly, analysis and 

evaluation were based on experts’ opinion and historic data, which did not allow for deeper 

analysis of hydrologic and socioeconomic developments taking place in the pilot basin. 

However, it should be noted that the narrative part is enriched with cartographic data, 

which allowed for better assessment and understanding of the linkages between natural and 

human environment. Finally, we hope that more information will be available in the future, 

which would allow for more opportunities of better assessments and deeper analyses of the 

Chorokhi-Adjaristkali pilot basin. 

Driving Forces Location Pressure Impact Significance 

Change in water 

temperature 

DO concentration is changed; 

Water pH is changed; Algae 

and phytoplankton blooming 

period is changed; Structure 

of habitats of aquatic species 

is changed; Species structure, 

composition and diversity is 

changed 

not significant 

Water Abstractions for 

drinking, industrial and 

hydropower water uses 

Korolistksali; 

Chakvistskali; 

Ajaristksali 

Change in 

sediment flow 

Sunlight penetration is 

increased resulting in an 

intensification of 

photosynthesis and, algae 

bloom and propagation; Heat 

is absorbed by suspended 

solids resulting in reduction 

of water temperature and 

increase of DO; Suspended 

solids are reduced causing 

activation of river bed 

processes and ultimately, 

alteration of benthic 

organisms. 

significant 

Increase in 

nutrient 

concentrations 

Alteration of composition of 

floodplain and aquatic 

vegetation 

not significant


Agricultural production; 

Solid household waste; 

Roads and transport; 


River; Chorokhi 

River; Black sea 

coast 

Agricultural 

fertilisers 

Leachates from 

the landfills 

Roadside heavy 

metal 

Changes in the composition 

and condition of algae 

Survival, reproductive and 

competition capacities of the 

organisms are changed 



Sewerage system, food 

industry 


River; Chorokhi 

River;Kintrishi 

River;Black sea 

coastal waters 

Waste water; 

organic waste 

from the food 

industry 

Altered composition and 

condition of algae; Survival, 

reproductive and 

competition capacity of 

organisms is changed; 

Increased water nutrients 

Fish and intervertebrate 

decline 

Reduced levels of oxygen in 

water 





River flow 

fragmentation 

by dams/levees 

Fragmentation of habitats 

and fish populations; 

Reduced reproduction and 

genetic biodiversity; Reduced 

nutrition for terrestrial 

species dependent on the 

aquatic species; 

significant 

Hydro power; Water 

regulation; Extraction of 

sand and gravel 


and Chorokhi 

Rivers 

Bank erosion; 

changes in the 

river bed 

structure 

through 

accumulation of 

sediments 

Increased sediment flow and 

water turbidity 

significant 

Changes in the 

physical and 

chemical 

composition of 

water 

Salt water intrusion into 

ground waters 


Damaged water 

substrata 

Reduced coastal and benthic 

habitats. 

significant


CHAPTER 4: MONITORING IN THE 

PILOT RIVER BASIN


4. MONITORING IN THE PILOT RIVER BASIN 

In accordance with Georgian legislation, the state water resources monitoring is a common 

system of regular observation and information on water quantity and quality in water objects 

and effluent discharges. Its aim is to acquire information on the state of the water and its 

objects, its interrelation with the surrounding natural and built-in environment, assessment 

of hydropower potential of water resources and rivers, prognosis of harmful impacts on 

water resources (e.g. Floods, mudflows, landslides, pollutant discharges), etc. 

Unfortunately, in the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali Pilot Basin, surface and ground water 

monitoring is carried out at a limited scale, regardless of the fact that this territory is covered 

by the Environmental Pollution Monitoring Laboratory of the Black Sea Monitoring 

Division, functioning within the auspices of the National Environment Agency (NEA) under 

the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Georgia (MoE). Apart from this, with a request 

of the Ajara Department on Environmental Natural Resources the laboratory of the Ajara 

Agriculture Ministry conducts monitoring of effluent discharges from industrial facilities. 

4.1 Surface Water Quality Monitoring 

4.1.1 Water Quality Monitoring and Existing Relevant Infrastructure 

Currently, there are 6 surface water observation sites operated within the Chorokhi- 

Adjaristskali Pilot Basin. These sites are located on the following rivers: 1) Kintrishi (one site 

located in the town Kobuleti, near the river mouth; the second site was located in the middle 

course of the river within a 12-km distance from the river mouth; was abollished in 2007); 2) 

Korolistskali (1 site located in 0.23 km distance from the river mouth); 3) Kubistskali (1 site 

located within the boundaries of the city of Batumi by the river mouth); 4) Bartskhana (1 site 

located in a 2.8 km distance from the river mouth; the second was located within Batumi 

near the river mouth; was abolished in 2007); 5) Chorokhi (1 site located within 1.5km 

distance from the river mouth); 6) Adjaristskali (1 site located in town Keda within 38km 

distance from the river mouth; the second site was located in town Khulo; was avolished in 

2006). These sites are operated by the NEA, MoE of Georgia (please see map of monitoring 

network enclosed). 

As it was mentioned above, in addition to the NEA water quality monitoring sites there is a 

Laboraty of the Ministry of Agriculture, established in 2006 on the basis of the biological 

laboratory of the same Ministry. In 2009, the Laboratory received an official accreditation. It 

is noteworthy to mention that the infrastructure of the given laboratory was renovated in 

2009 and it was granted the accreditation in the analysis of organoleptic, chemical and 

biological parameters of water.


The state surface water quality monitoring program within the Chorokhi-Adjaristskali Pilot 

Basin is carried out on the major rivers and their tributaries, predominantly near Black Sea 

coast. Samples are taken 12 times a year and in separate cases, 6 times a year. Sample chainof-custody 

procedures follow ISO or other international standards. 

4.1.2 Methodology for Assessment of Surface Water Quality 

Surface water quality data are double-checked, approved, archived and then published to the 

broader public. Data processing is carried out in a way to meet the needs of various 

organizations and monitoring objectives. 

Below is presented a table that shows the water quality monitoring infrastructure and 

methodologies of existing water quality laboratories functioning in Georgia. 

#1 Laboratory: Atmospheric Air, Water and Soil Quality Analysis Laboratory 

(NEA, located in Tbilisi, marked as “Tbs” in the table below) 

#2 Laboratory: Environmental Pollution Monitoring Laboratory (Located in 

Kutaisi and marked as “Kts”) 

#3 Laboratory: Black Sea Monitoring Laboratory (Located in Batumi and 

marked as “Btm”) 

It should be mentioned that the labs 1 and 3 carry out regular monitoring of surface water 

quality in the pilot river basin. 

Table 4.1. Water quality infrastructure and methodology of existing water quality laboratories 

PARAMETERS 

CAN BE 

ANALYSED 

ANALYSIS 

№ Parameter (group) Yes/No 

GENERAL CONDITIONS 

Equipment 

(method, brand, model) 

Method 

(number, 

title) 

Detection 

limit 

Unit 

Thermal conditions 

1 Water temperature Yes 

MULTI-PARAMETER 

zond/ Oxi 330i/340i 

Germany (Tbs) 

Multi Probe System YSI 

556 MPS (Btm) 

[ o C]


Oxygenation conditions 

2 Dissolved oxygen (O 2 ) Yes 


zond/ Oxi 330i/340i 

Germany (Tbs) 

Analyzer (Btm) 

(EPA 

2540)1998 

[mg 

O 2 /l] 

Nutrient conditions 

3 

Nitrogen / organic 

nitrogen 

[mg 

N/l] 

4 

Nitrite (NO 2 ) 

Yes 

ION Chromatograph ICS 

1000, Dionex (Tbs) 

KFK2 (Kts) 

SKALAR SAN plus 

ANALYZER (Btm) 

ISO 10304-1 

:2007 

0.0079 

[mg 

N/l] 

5 

Nitrate (NO 3 ) 

Yes 



KFK2 (Kts) 



ISO 10304-1 

:2007 

0.0045 

[mg 

N/l] 

6 Ammonium (NH 4 ) Yes 

Spectrophotometer 

pecord 205 (Tbs) 

KFK2 (Kts) 



ISO 10304-1 

:2007 

0.0001 

[mg 

N/l] 

7 Total phosphorus 

[mg 

P/l] 

8 Ortho-phosphates (PO 4 ) Yes 



KFK2 (Kts) 



ISO 10304-1 

:2007 

0.023 

[mg 

P/l] 

Salinity 

9 Total mineralization 


zond/ Cond. 330i/340i 

Germany (Tbs) 

EPA2520- 

1998; ISO 788- 

1985; 

[mg/l] 

10 

Chloride (Cl) 



titrimetric (Kts) 

titrimetric (Btm) 

ISO 10304-1 

:2007 

0.0143 [mg/l] 

11 

Sulphates (SO 4 ) 


1000, Daionex (Tbs) 

KFK2 (Kts) 

KFK2 (Btm) 

ISO 10304-1 

:2007 

0.0095 [mg/l]


12 Conductivity 


zond/ Cond. 330i/340i 

Germany (Tbs) 

EPA2520- 

1998; ISO 788- 

1985; 

[µS/cm 

] 

Acidification status 

13 pH Yes 

pH 330i/340i 

Germany/ pH C2701-8 

France (Tbs) 

Digital pH Meter DPH-2 

(Btm) 

[-] 

OTHER PARAMETERS 

14 

Biochemical oxygen 

demand (5 days, BOD 5 ) 

Spectrometer Specord 

205 (Tbs) 

Dissolved Oxygen 

Analyzer (Btm) 

ISO 5815 

15 

Chemical oxygen 

demand (COD), 

permanganate 

titrimetric (Tbs) 

titrimetric (Btm) 

16 

Chemical oxygen 

demand, potassium 

dichromate 

titrimetric 

method 

17 

Total iron (Fe 2+ and 

Fe 3+ ) 

AAS Analyst200, Perkin 

Elmer (Tbs) 

AAS Analyst600, 

Perkin Elmer (Btm) 

ISO 8288 9 [µg/l] 

18 

Manganese 


Elmer (Tbs) 



ISO 8288 1,6 [µg/l] 

19 Odour (20 o C and 60 o C) organoleptic [point] 

20 Colour ISO 7887 

[grade 

] 

21 Phenols [µg/l] 

TRACE METALS 

22 Cadmium (Cd) [µg/l] 

23 

Lead (Pb) 


Elmer (Tbs) 



ISO 8288 68 [µg/l] 

24 Mercury (Hg) 


Elmer (Tbs) 

[µg/l]


25 

Nickel (Ni) 


Elmer (Tbs) 



ISO 8288 100 [µg/l] 

26 

Copper (Cu) 


Elmer (Tbs) 



ISO 8288 3 [µg/l] 

27 

Zinc (Zn) 


Elmer (Tbs) 



ISO 8288 2 [µg/l] 

Source: NEA, MoE of Georgia 

4.1.3 Selection of Criteria for Chemical Substances and their Analysis 

Currently, there is no single regulation in Georgia, setting the list of water quality 

components and parameters to be measured by the state water quality monitoring services. 

Therefore, NEA approved the monitoring program, including the list of physical-chemical 

components and parameters each year. The list is presented in table 2 below. 

Table 4.2. The List of physical-chemical elements and criteria parameters for water quality 

monitoring 

PARAMETERS 

ROUTINELY 

MONITORED 

frequency 

[# year] 

COULD BE 

MONITORED 

CANNOT BE 

MONITORED 

explanation 

№ Parameter (group) Tbs Kts Btm 

GENERAL CONDITIONS 

Thermal conditions 

1 Water temperature X X X 12 

Oxygenation conditions 

2 Dissolved oxygen (O 2 ) X X X 12 

Nutrient conditions 

3 

Kjeldahl nitrogen / organic 

nitrogen 

- - - 

4 Nitrite (NO 2 ) X X X 12 

5 Nitrate (NO 3 ) X X X 12 

6 Ammonium (NH 4 ) X X X 12


7 Total phosphorus X 

Lack of 

methodology 

8 Ortho-phosphates (PO 4 ) X X X 12 

Salinity 

9 Total mineralization X X X 12 

10 Chloride (Cl) X X X 12 

11 Sulphates (SO 4 ) X X X 12 

12 Conductivity X X 12 Kutaisi Lack of equipment 

Acidification status 

13 pH X X X 12 

14 

15 

16 

OTHER PARAMETERS 

Biochemical oxygen 

demand (5 days, BOD 5 ) 

Chemical oxygen demand 

(COD), permanganate 

Chemical oxygen demand, 

potassium dichromate 

X X X 12 

- - - X - Btm 

X - - * X 

17 Total iron (Fe 2+ and Fe 3+ ) X X X 12 

18 Manganese X* - X* 12 X - Kts 

19 Odour (20 o C and 60 o C) X X X 12 

* on demand only; 

modern equipment 

is needed 

* temporary 

disruptions at Tbs 

and Btm labs 

20 Colour - X - 12 X-Tbs/Btm Lack of equipment; 

21 Phenols X - - On demand X 

TRACE METALS * 

22 Cadmium (Cd) - - X 4 

23 Lead (Pb) X X 4 

24 Mercury (Hg) - - - 

25 Nickel (Ni) X - X 

Need for new 

methodology 

support 

* temporary 

disruptions at Tbs 

and Btm labs 

Kts - no need to 

measure 


measure; Tbs - new 

equip. is needed; 

Btm - equip. fixing 

is needed


26 Copper (Cu) X - X 

7 Zinc (Zn) X - X 

ORGANIC MICROPOLLUTANTS 

28 1,2-Dichloroethane - - - X 

29 Alachlor - - - X 

30 Aldrin - - X 

31 Anthracene X - - 4 

32 Atrazine X - - 4 

33 Benzene - - - X 

34 Benzo(a)pyrene) X - - 4 

35 Benzo(b)fluoranthene X - - 4 

36 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene X - - 4 

37 Benzo(k)fluoranthene X - - 4 

38 C10-13-chloroalkanes - - - X 

39 Carbontetrachloride - - - X 

40 Chlorfenvinphos X - - 4 

41 Chlorpyrifos - - - X 





is needed 





is needed 

No need to 

measure in Kts and 

Btm; lack of 

solutions in Tbilisi 

No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 

solutions in Tbs 

No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 

solutions in Tbs


42 DDT total - - - X 

43 Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate - - - X 

44 Dichloromethane - - - X 

45 Dieldrin - - - X 

46 Diuron - - - X 

47 Endosulfan - - - X 

48 Endrin - - - X 

49 Fluoranthene X - - 4 

51 Hexachlorobenzene - - - X 

52 Hexachlorobutadiene - - - X 

53 Hexachlorocyclohexane - - - X 

54 Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene - - - X 

55 Isodrin - - - X 

No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 

solutions in Tbs


56 Isoproturon - - - X 

57 Naphthalene X - - 4 

58 Nonylphenol - - - X 

59 Octylphenol - - - X 

60 para-para-DDT - - - X 

61 Pentabromodiphenylether - - - X 

62 Pentachlorobenzene - - - X 

63 Pentachlorophenol - - - X 

64 Simazine - - - X 

65 Tetrachloroethylene - - - X 

66 Tributyltin compounds - - - X 

67 

Trichlorobenzenes (all 

isomers) 

- - - X 

68 Trichloroethylene - - - X 

No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 

solutions in Tbs


69 

Trichloromethane 

(Chloroform) 

- - - X 

70 Trifluralin - - - X 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


No need to 


Btm; lack of 


4.1.4 QA/QC Systems 

The Depatement on Environmental Pollution Monitoring is in charge of implementation of 

the state water quality monitoring program. Respectively, it is also responsible for 

establishing and developing the quality management system. 

Currently, there are few normative documents in Georgia that are used by the laboratories 

for the analysis of surface water quality samples. The Handbook on the Quality Management 

is a major part of this documentation (it was developed in 2010-2011). It sets up the structure 

of the quality management in line with ISO/IEC 17 025 standard. It also contains several 

detailed documents, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), methods of 

calibration, staff qualification, training needs as well as audit quality requirements. 

Regardless of the presence of official documentation on the quality management system, 

many components of this system are not applied in practice (e.g. quality control techniques 

and procedures, internal and external audit, training plan, etc.). NEA mostly uses ISO or 

other international standards and methodologies for sampling and laboratory analysis. 

Quality control procedures for sampling are not included in the Georgian Handbook for 

Quality Management. However, in practice, certain measures are usually carried out. 

Unfortunately, there is no national water quality testing laboratory established in Georgia. 

Therefore, the quality of testing is not assured nationwide. 

Table 4.3. Surface water quality standards 

Parameter 

Water for the 

Abstraction of 

Drinking Water 

Water for 

Recreation 

Water for Fish 

I category 

II category 

1 2 3 4 5 

Suspended Solids, 

mg/l 

B* + 0,25 B* + 0,75 B* + 0,25 B* + 0,75 

Colour 

no visible change in 20 

cm column 

no visible change in 

20 cm column 

no visible change 

no visible 

change


Odour, taste 

1 conditional unit by 5- 

unit scale 

1 conditional unit by 

5-unit scale 

no detectable 

change 

no detectable 

change 

Temperature, o C 

maximum change in 

summer - 3 o increase 

maximum change in 

summer - 3 o increase 

< 20 o C in summer, 

6 >6 

BOD, mg O 2 /l 3 6 3 6 

COD, mg O 2 /l 15 30 _ _ 

Total coliform 

bacteria 

Ammonium (as N NH4 ), 

mg/l 

100 in 1 l sample 100 in 1 l sample _ _ 

0,39 0,39 0,39 0,39 

Aluminium (Al), mg/l 0,5 0,5 0,5 0,5 

Barium (Ba), mg/l 0,1 0,1 2,0 2,0 

Beryllium (Be), mg/l 0,0002 0,0002 0,0002 0,0002 

Boron (B), mg/l 0,5 0,5 10,0 10,0 

Arsenic (As), mg/l 0,05 0,05 0,05 0,05 

Vanadium (V), mg/l 0,1 0,1 0,001 0,001 

Mercury (Hg), mg/l 0,0005 0,0005 0 0 

Wolfram (W), mg/l 0,005 0,005 0,0008 0,0008 

Zinc (Zn), mg/l 1,0 1,0 0,01 0,01 

Cadmium (Cd), mg/l 0,001 0,001 0,005 0,005 

Cobalt (Co), mg/l 0,1 0,1 0,01 0,01 

Caprolactam, mg/l 1,0 1,0 1,0 1,0 

Manganese (Mn), 

mg/l 

0,1 0,1 0,01 0,01 

Molibden (Mo), mg/l 0,25 0,25 0,012 0,012 

Nitrites (NO 2 ), mg/l 3,3 3,3 0,08 0,08 

Nitrates (NO 3 ), mg/l 45,0 45,0 40,0 40,0 

Nickel (Ni), mg/l 0,1 0,1 0,01 0,01 

Iron (Fe), mg/l 0,3 0,3 0,005 0,005


Selenium (Se), mg/l 0,001 0,001 0,0016 0,0016 

Copper (Cu), mg/l 1,0 1,0 0,001 0,001 

Sulphates (SO 4 ), mg/l 500 500 100 100 

Antimony (Sb), mg/l 0,05 0,05 0,05 0,05 

Thallium (Tl), mg/l 0,0001 0,0001 0,0001 0,0001 

Titanium (Ti), mg/l 0,1 0,1 0,1 0,1 

Lead (Pb), mg/l 0,03 0,03 0,1 0,1 

Tellurium (Te), mg/l 0,01 0,01 0,0028 0,0028 

Phosphorus element. 

(P), mg/l 

0,0001 0,0001 0 0 

Fluorides (F), mg/l 0,05 0,05 0,05 0,05 

Chlorides (Cl), mg/l 350,0 350,0 300,0 300,0 

Chromium (Cr-Y!), 

mg/l 

0,1 0,1 0,001 0,001 

Cyanides (CN), mg/l 0,1 0,1 0,05 0,05 

Ethylene (CH 2 =CH 2 ), 

mg/l 

Synthetic Surface 

Active Substances 

(Detergents), mg/l 

Methanol (CH 3 OH), 

mg/l 

0,5 0,5 0,5 0,5 

0,1 0,1 0,1 0,1 

3,0 3,0 0,1 0,1 

Oil products, mg/l 0,3 0,3 0,05 0,05 

Formaldehyde 

(HCHO), mg/l 

Acetone (CH 3 ) 2 CO, 

mg/l 

Butyl alcohol 

(CH 3 ) 3 COH, mg/l 

Phenols (C 6 H 5 OH), 

mg/l 


0,05 0,05 0,01 0,01 

2,2 2,2 0,05 0,05 

0,1 0,1 0,03 0,03 

0,001 0,001 0,001 0,001


4.2 Hydromorphological monitoring 

4.2.1 Hydromorphological Monitoring in the Pilot River Basin 

In accordance with available information, the Hydrometeorological Department of the NEA, 

MoE carries out regular hydrological observation at 6 gauging sites within the Pilot River 

Basin. Data are collected on water level and temperature. Unfortunately, hydromorphological 

information is very limited and it is gathered only under specific hydropower 

or hydrological projects. 

4.2.2 Methodology and Observation Frequency 

Regardless of the fact that regular hydromorphological monitoring is not carried out in the 

Pilot River Basin, below we present a table with monitoring parameters and observation 

frequency. 

Table 4.4. Hydrological and hydromorphological monitoring parameters in the plot river basin 

PARAMETERS 

ROUTINELY 

MONITORED 

frequency 

[# year] 

COULD BE 

MONITORED 

CANNOT BE 

MONITORED 

explanation 

RIVERS 

Quantity and dynamics of water flow 

1 Water discharge X 20-30 X 

2 Current velocity X 20-30 X 

3 

4 

Groundwater table 

height 

River Continuity 

Number and type of 

barriers and 

associated provision 

for fish passage 

River depth and width variation 

- X 

X 

Monitored routinely at 

5 hydrological 

stations, none of 

which are located in 

the pilot basin 

Monitored routinely at 

5 hydrological 

stations, none of 

which are located in 

the pilot basin 

Could be measured in 

coordination with GW 

monitoring 

No need for 

monitoring this 

parameter due to the 

river types in Georgia


5 River cross-section X 2 

6 Water level X 730 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

Structure and substrate of the river bed 

Particle size of the 

river bed substrate 

Presence of coarse 

woody debris 

Structure of the riparian zone 

Length of the riparian 

zone 

Width of the riparian 

zone 

Continuity of the 

riparian 

zone 

12 Ground cover X 


X 

X 

X 

X 

X 

Measured before and 

after the high water 

seasons 

Could be monitored in 

case of appropriate 

equipment and 

funding 

Could be monitored in 

case of appropriate 

equipment and 

funding 

Not required by 

current regulations; 

possible to do when 

measuring river crosssections 













4.2.3 Hydromorphological Monitoring and Quality Control Elements 

Below we present the table that contains the list of equipment and methods used for 

hydrological monitoring in the Pilot River Basin. The equipment is pretty outdated; in many 

cases needs calibration and sometimes; replacement with modern equipment.


Table 4.5. Hydrological monitoring methods and equipment used in the pilot river basin 

PARAMETERS 

MESUREMENTS 

№ Parameter (group) 

1 Water discharge 

Equipment 

(method, brand, model) 

Current meter (noncalibrated) 

Мethod (№, title) 

Calculation of area 

by velocity 

2 Water level Scale Surveying points cm 

3 Sedimentation rate 

Unit 

m 3 /sec 

4 Precipitation Precipitation gage mm 

5 Air temperature Thermometer C 0 

6 Air humidity Hygrometer % 


4.3 Groundwater Monitoring 

In accordance with Georgian Legislation, the Department of the Geological Risk 

Management together with the Engineering Geology Division, under the NEA, MoE are in 

charge of the ground water monitoring, which has not been carried out since 1990s of the 

last century neither in the Pilot River Basin nor elsewhere in Georgia. Ground water 

monitoring points and relevant infrastructure do not exist at all. Historical data are available 

in the archives of the State Geological Information Fund. This information is old (e.g. dated 

back to Soviet period) and exists only on paper (as hard copies). 

4.4 Biological Monitoring 

In the Pilot River Basin, similar to other parts of Georgia, hydrobiological monitoring of 

surface waters is not carried out. Even during the Soviet period, hydrobiological observations 

were conducted only by scientific-research institutes within the frameworks of concrete 

studies. However, it should be mentioned that the Black Sea Monitoring Laboratory of the 

NEA, which in the past had a status of independent scientific-research institute has a vast 

experience in the marine and fresh water hydrobiological monitoring on the territory of 

Ajara. 

Currently, Black Sea Monitoring Division and its Biological Laboratory of Ajara Autonomous 

Republic carry out regular water quality monitoring of coastal waters. It is planned to


introduce hydrobiological monitoring in this laboratory in the near future. For this, it is 

necessary to develop a comprehensive training program in order to harmonize existing 

methodologies and practices with the requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive 

on Hydrobiological Monitoring. 

The tables presented below contain information on methodologies for assessment and 

classification of biological components as well as on biological sampling frequency. 

Table 4.6. Sampling frequency and methodology for biological monitoring 

PARAMETERS 

ROUTINELY 

MONITORED 

frequency 

SAMPLING METHOD 

1 benthic invertebrate fauna yes* 4 

2 phytoplankton yes* 4 

3 phytobenthos yes* 4 

4 macrophytes yes* 4 

5 fish fauna yes* 4 

other (specify in the next rows) 

6 zooplankton yes* 4 


* Monitoring is carried out only in coastal waters of the Black Sea 

(yes/no) [# year] (number, title) 

Table 4.7. Methodology for classification and assessment of biological components 

METHOD 

1 

PARAMETERS 

benthic 

invertebrate fauna 

(number, 

title) 

Composition Abundance Biomass other 

X X X Shannon 

2 phytoplankton X X X 

3 phytobenthos X X X 

4 macrophytes X X X 

5 fish fauna X X X 

other 

6 zooplankton 

Source: NEA, MoE of Georgia


5. ANNEXES (MAPS) 

ANNEX 1. GENERAL MAP 

ANNEX 2. HYDROLOGY 

ANNEX 3. INDUSTRY MAP 

ANNEX 4. INFRASTRUCTURE MAP 

ANNEX 6. GEOMORPHOLOGY MAP 

ANNEX 7. GROUNDWATER AQUIFERS 

ANNEX 8. PROTECTED AREAS 

ANNEX 9. POPULATION MAP 

ANNEX 10. WASTE DISPOSAL SITES 

ANNEX 11. FISH FARMS 

ANNEX 12. MONITORING NETWORK

1 River Basin Analysis in The Chorokhi - Adjaristskali pilot basin, Georgia ANNEX 1


ANNEX 2


ANNEX 3


ANNEX 4


ANNEX 5


ANNEX 6


ANNEX 7


ANNEX 8


ANNEX 9

10 River Basin Analysis in The Chorokhi - Adjaristskali pilot basin, Georgia ANNEX 10 

1010


ANNEX 11 

1010


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