Akim of Kostanay region Kumar Aksakalov spoke at a meeting of the republican headquarters for the coordination of flood prevention measures chaired by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov. He said that the region is actively preparing for the flood period and is ready for possible risks.
According to Kazhydromet's forecast, precipitation and temperature rise to +7 °C are expected in the region from March 13 to 18. Necessary measures have been carried out in 92 settlements affected by flooding. 168 culverts were built, 20 km of storm sewers were laid, drainage systems and filling dams were purchased in the amount of 860 million tenge. More than 7.5 billion tenge has been allocated for flood prevention measures, including the repair of 27 hydraulic structures. Additionally, 1.5 billion tenge is provided in the reserve for emergency measures.
"We took into account all possible risks in advance to avoid a repeat of last year's situation. All work is being carried out systematically, equipment and people are ready for any eventuality. It is important not only to protect settlements, but also to minimize damage to farmland and infrastructure," Kumar Aksakalov emphasized.
Points designed for 20,000 people have been prepared for possible evacuations. Protective ramparts have been strengthened in Amangeldy, Zhangeldinsky districts and Arkalyk, and coastal protection works have been carried out. Organized transportation of farm animals to safe zones will begin on March 15. Stocks of feed have been harvested, including 644 thousand tons of hay, 217 thousand tons of straw, 84 thousand tons of hayloft and 243 thousand tons of concentrated feed.
Water levels in rivers and reservoirs are monitored in the region. The total volume of water in large reservoirs is 881 million cubic meters, which corresponds to 61% of their normal filling. To prevent ice jams, blasting operations on reservoirs are planned from March 15. 193 million tenge has been allocated for these purposes, three times more than last year.
"We continue to clear riverbeds, strengthen dams and banks, and coordinate with neighboring regions. All necessary services are involved in the work. The situation remains under control, and we are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of people," the governor of the region said.
To eliminate the consequences of the floods, a group of forces was formed, which included 3,000 specialists, about 400 pieces of equipment, 120 watercraft and 330 motor pumps. Water levels are also constantly monitored, and coordination with neighboring regions, including the Russian Federation, is maintained.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/955799