On August 28, a regional session dedicated to the implementation of the National Project "Energy and Utilities Sectors: Modernization and Development" was held in Shymkent. The event was chaired by Arman Malik, a representative of the Committee for the Regulation of Natural Monopolies of the Ministry of National Economy. The session focused on the state of the city's utilities infrastructure, specifically the problems of Su Resurstary – Marketing, the water and sewerage company.

In his speech, Arman Malik emphasized that the reliable operation of utility systems is directly linked to the quality of life of city residents and the stability of the economy as a whole. He noted that modernizing the energy sector and utility networks should be viewed as a strategic objective requiring the combined efforts of the government, business, and the expert community. He stated that such meetings help identify problem areas and propose practical mechanisms for addressing them.

The session brought together a wide range of participants. Among those invited were Shymkent Deputy Mayor Arman Sabitov, representatives of natural monopolies, construction and design companies, domestic manufacturers, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and delegations from the Turkestan and Zhambyl regions. This interregional involvement is explained by the fact that infrastructure modernization issues affect the interests of the entire southern Kazakhstan, and Shymkent's experience can be applied to neighboring regions.

Participants paid special attention to the situation surrounding Su Resurstary Marketing LLC. According to official data, the deterioration of the sewer networks maintained by the company is 73.5%. This means that almost three-quarters of the utilities are in disrepair and require replacement or major reconstruction. Currently, the system is unable to cope with the growing load in the metropolis, creating risks to environmental safety and public health.

To address this problem, a large-scale program to upgrade 164.4 kilometers of sewer lines is planned. The project will reduce deterioration by 16%, marking a significant step toward the sustainable development of the city's utilities sector. The total investment is estimated at 44.9 billion tenge, with key modernization stages scheduled for completion in 2026.

Representatives of the Ministry of Industry and Construction, the national management holding company "Baiterek," JSC "Kazcenter Housing and Utilities," and the Development Bank of Kazakhstan spoke at the meeting. They discussed financing opportunities, public-private partnership mechanisms, and support measures for domestic equipment manufacturers. According to the experts, one of the key objectives is to maximize the potential of local businesses so that a significant portion of funds remains in the national economy.

It's important to note that this isn't the first time such discussions have been held in Shymkent. In previous years, for example, in 2018 and 2020, issues related to the state of utility networks were raised, but back then, the primary focus was on water supply and ensuring stable water pressure in residential areas. Today, the situation has reached a new level – we're talking about a full-scale modernization of the sewerage system, which had been long delayed. Comparing current measures with past ones, it's clear that the government and businesses are now paying much more focused attention to the issue.

Local residents are also actively interested in the progress of the reforms. Issues related to sewer system modernization were raised at public hearings, and residents have repeatedly expressed concern about frequent accidents and service interruptions. In this sense, the national project is perceived as a real opportunity to improve quality of life and reduce environmental risks.

According to experts, the project's implementation is expected to not only reduce the number of emergencies but also significantly lower operating costs. This, in turn, should impact tariff policy: by reducing losses and emergency repairs, it will be possible to maintain tariffs at a more stable level.

The role of innovative technologies was also an important aspect of the discussion. Representatives of construction and design organizations emphasized the need to use modern materials and solutions during network reconstruction, which will extend the service life of utilities and reduce the risk of accidents.

The regional session in Shymkent demonstrated that modernization of the utilities sector is impossible without a systemic approach and coordinated action by all stakeholders. Unlike previous years, when discussions were more declarative, this year's event demonstrated the existence of concrete plans, financial instruments, and the political will to implement them.

Thus, the attention paid to the problems of Su Resurstary-Marketing LLC has become a symbol of a larger effort to upgrade the city's infrastructure. Depreciation at 73.5% is alarming, but the launch of the reconstruction program gives hope that in the coming years, Shymkent will be able to significantly improve the condition of its public utilities and provide residents with decent living conditions.