On August 20, 2025, important work began in the Al-Farabi district of Shymkent city to modernize irrigation systems. On this day, the district akim Maratbek Samenbekuly got acquainted with the current state of local canals and channels and gave specific instructions to specialists. The main goal is to reduce the risk of waterlogging, improve the capacity of the canals, prevent flooding, and create comfortable conditions for residents. The direct involvement of the district akim himself indicates that special attention is paid to this issue. Irrigation systems are necessary not only for agriculture, but also for the safety of city residents. If irrigation does not work properly, during heavy rainfall, streets will flood, roads will be damaged, and residential buildings will be at risk. Therefore, this work should be permanent, not one-time. This year's special feature is this - measures have begun to be monitored not seasonally, but daily.

If we look back at previous years, in 2023, such work was mainly carried out only at the beginning of the season. At that time, the canals were cleaned and some points were put in order, but this had only a temporary effect. During heavy rainfall or unexpected weather conditions, the weakness of the systems became apparent, and water would spread on some streets. Although residents complained, the problem was often solved only through temporary measures. In 2024, the first systematic steps were taken in this direction. Special groups were created and cleaning of canals at certain times began to be practiced. Devices for regulating the water level were installed in some areas, but this has not yet become a fully-fledged permanent system. The work was mainly carried out only in the spring and summer, and was neglected in the autumn and winter months. Therefore, problems arose again during the rainy season.

And this year, the initiative for 2025 is completely different. The district administration considers irrigation not just as a seasonal operation, but as a strategic task that requires constant daily monitoring. Starting from August 20, canals will be inspected, water permeability will be assessed, and garbage and silt will be cleaned regularly. Special equipment will be deployed, and planned work will be organized to prevent canals from subsiding. Instead of preparing for unexpected situations, as before, priority is given to preventive measures. The main feature of this approach is prevention, not waiting for an event. Daily attention to each part of the system will ensure its durability.

As a result of this initiative, residents will benefit first and foremost. The risk of flooding will be reduced, streets will be dry and safe. Roads will be protected from damage, additional funds allocated for infrastructure will be saved. It will also bring efficiency to agriculture. The necessary water will be regulated for irrigated fields, and excess water will not be wasted. This, in turn, will increase productivity and support the work of farmers. Another important point is maintaining the ecological balance. Cleaning water channels from silt and garbage will pave the way for the proper functioning of the natural system.

Compared to the experience of previous years, this year's systematic work will also increase the trust of residents. Previously, people would only complain and wait for a response when a problem arose. Now they will see the results of preventive work with their own eyes. Even residents themselves are being involved in this and are being invited to participate in keeping the canals clean. Increasing public responsibility is another important aspect of this initiative. If local residents do not litter, do not damage the system, and pay attention to cleanliness, the efficiency of irrigation will increase.

There are also plans to digitize these works in the future. Monitoring the condition of each channel via GPS, installing automated devices that measure water levels, and monitoring data online are among the future plans of the district akimat. The introduction of such technologies will allow us to immediately identify where in the system there is a problem and take timely measures. This experience exists in developed countries and can now be implemented in our region.

In general, the modernization of irrigation systems in the Al-Farabi district, which began on August 20, is fundamentally different from the previous seasonal cleaning practice. This is a new approach based on preventive measures, requiring constant, daily monitoring. The steps taken for the safety and comfort of residents are aimed at the efficient use of water resources, the preservation of infrastructure, and support for agriculture. Compared to previous years, this initiative will allow achieving more systematic and tangible results. Continuing these works on a regular basis will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the socio-economic development of the district and improve the quality of life of the population.