Balashikha (Russian: Балашиха, IPA: [bəɫəˈɕixa]) is a city in Moscow Oblast, Russia, located on the Pekhorka River 1 kilometers (1 mi) east of Moscow. It is known for its unique river and waterway system. The Pekhorka River system covers an area of 40 kilometers (25 mi) from north to south and 20 kilometers (12 mi) from east to west, and many small lakes and ponds were created by damming to provide water power for the cotton mills in the 19th century. Population: 215,300 (2010 Census preliminary results); 147,909 (2002 Census); 135,841 (1989 Census); 92,400 (1970).