During a briefing session, Kazakh
Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov stated that the flood danger in the country has
passed. However, the Atyrau region remains at risk. The water level of the
Zhaiyk River continues to rise, with approximately a meter shy of the critical
mark. The peak is expected in the coming days. Bektenov instructed local
authorities to maximize protective measures in the region from the approaching
flood, as it was done in the neighboring western Kazakhstan, where extensive
preventive flood control measures and mobilized forces enabled the region to
navigate the peak without damage. As of today, over 13,000 people and more than
1,200 units of equipment are involved in emergency and rescue operations in the
Atyrau region. 500 kilometers of dams have been built, half of which are positioned
along residential areas. Dredging works are underway at the river mouth, on the
Caspian Sea, to facilitate the swift passage of a large volume of water.
Bektenov directed to ensure hourly monitoring of the water level and extend protective
dams’ length.
“Thanks to joint efforts,
flooding was prevented in 84 settlements in the West Kazakhstan region. Dams
were constructed, and over 2,000 military personnel and 2,000 pieces of
equipment were mobilized from various regions of the country. Overall, more
than 11,000 people were involved. All of these actions yielded positive
results. Now, the focus is on preventing flooding in the Atyrau region,” the
Prime Minister said.
Over 1,600 families in the West
Kazakhstan region have received one-time payments, and around 8,000 have
applied for compensation for damages. Assessments for over 1,000 homes have
already been completed.