Andijan

Andijan Region is a region of Uzbekistan, located in the eastern part of the Fergana Valley in far eastern Uzbekistan. It borders with Kyrgyzstan, Fergana Region and Namangan Region. It covers an area of 4,200 km2. The population is estimated to be around 3,011,700 thus making Andijan Region the most densely populated region of Uzbekistan.Andijon lies in the southeastern part of the Fergana Valley. The city, which stands on ancient deposits of the Andijon River, dates back at least to the 9th century. In the 15th century it became the capital of the Fergana Valley and, being on the Silk Road caravan route to China, its chief centre of trade and handicrafts. In the 18th century it became part of the khanate of Kokand, and in 1876 Andijon was captured by the Russians. In 1898 it was the scene of an abortive native rebellion against tsarist rule. Andijon is subject to frequent earth tremors and was leveled by an earthquake in 1902 that took more than 4,000 lives.

The surrounding area is the most densely populated part of Uzbekistan. Several major irrigation canals provide water for crops of cotton, grapes, and fruit. The region is also the main petroleum-producing area of Uzbekistan. Other industries are mainly concerned with processing raw cotton and other agricultural products. Pop. (2007 est.) 321,622.