Urban development projects in Kazakhstan to be coordinated with Emergencies Ministry

Urban development projects in Kazakhstan to be coordinated with Emergencies Ministry

The Ministry for Emergency Situations is proposed to be granted new functions and powers. For example, the ministry is set to coordinate construction projects in the country regarding seismic, mudflow, and avalanche safety. The Mazhilis, the Lower House of the Kazakh Parliament, approved amendments to the draft law on civil protection in the first reading. The document was presented to the Mazhilis members by Emergencies Minister Chingis Arinov. According to him, systemic approaches are being introduced to ensure the safety of the population in seismic zones. Specifically, the ministry, together with local authorities, will be tasked with implementing measures to protect the population from earthquakes and mitigate their consequences. Additionally, the ministry is set to be granted the authority to issue special conclusions for buildings over 28 meters in height, which are expected to be visited by large numbers of Kazakh residents, such as shopping malls, sports facilities, and others. The ministry will verify their compliance with fire safety requirements during operation.

«Organizations providing fire protection system installation services must meet specific requirements to ensure higher-quality services for citizens. These include possessing relevant qualifications and necessary equipment. Additionally, an insurance system will be implemented for venues with large crowds, covering damages in the event of a fire that causes harm to third parties. This initiative aims to enhance fire safety at major facilities and ensure compensation for victims,» Arinov said.