Gumati

Geography and Location

Gumati is a scenic village situated in the Tskaltubo Municipality of the Imereti region, Western Georgia.

• Elevation: 320 meters above sea level.
• Location: Right bank of the Rioni River, north of Kutaisi.
• Landscape: Northern foothills of Imereti with riverine views.

History and Heritage

The village has deep historical roots and is featured on several maps compiled by the 18th-century Georgian geographer Vakhushti Batonishvili.

• Historical Region: Part of the historical district of Okriba during the late Middle Ages.
• Notable Figures: Birthplace of Lavrenti Avaliani, a recognized hero of World War II.

Gumati HPP and the Rioni River

A defining feature of the village is the Gumati Hydroelectric Power Plant (Gumati HPP), a significant energy project on the Rioni River.

• Cascade: Consists of Gumati I and Gumati II power stations.
• River: Built on the Rioni River, one of Georgia's major waterways.
• Reservoir: The construction led to the creation of the Gumati Reservoir, blending industrial utility with the natural landscape.

Local Context and Economy

Beyond its role in energy production, Gumati is known for its natural resources and traditional agricultural practices.

• Natural Resources: Extraction of teshenite, a high-quality volcanic rock used in construction.
• Agriculture: Viticulture, fruit growing, and livestock farming.
• Social Context: Recently became a center for environmental activism related to the protection of the Rioni Valley.