On November 4, a video filmed in Shymkent's arboretum circulated on social media. The author claims that after heavy rainfall, the area was flooded, a foul odor permeated the entire area, unsanitary conditions developed, and it became virtually impossible to navigate the park. Internet users actively discussed the footage, expressing concern about the state of one of the city's most beloved recreation areas.

Many commenters speculated that the video captured sewage runoff that had leaked onto the surface due to a faulty system. This sparked a public outcry, as the arboretum is not only a recreational area but also a nature conservation site, home to numerous rare plants, birds, and small animals.

In response to the criticism, city authorities issued an official explanation. According to the Akimat, the incident was caused by heavy rain on the night of November 3rd to 4th, which temporarily reduced the capacity of the 500mm diameter sewer collector on Tolebaeva (Tolemetova) Street. Due to the blockage, some rainwater was unable to drain through the system and began to accumulate near the roadway, including the outlet toward the arboretum.

"The incident was reported at approximately 12:25 AM, and an emergency team from the State Utility Company "Su Kubyry Zhane Kanalizatsiya Baskarmasy" (Water Supply and Sanitation) arrived at the scene by 1:00 AM. As a result of these efforts, the blockage was completely cleared by 3:30 AM. The system is currently operating normally, and there is no risk of a recurrence," the department reported.

The Akimat emphasized that this was accumulated rainwater, not pure wastewater discharge. However, specialists immediately began sanitizing the area to prevent unpleasant odors and potential sanitary risks.

However, the stormwater runoff incident was only part of the debate surrounding the arboretum's condition. A wave of criticism had previously spread on social media against local authorities over construction work within the park's green space. Residents expressed concerns that a significant portion of the park's land had allegedly been allocated for development, and that trees were being cut down en masse.

Some users claimed that investors intend to convert the natural area into commercial space, gradually reducing the green space. Comments even predicted the possible disappearance of the arboretum in the future if construction expands.

To ease tensions and prevent the spread of false information, the Akimat issued a clarification. City administration representatives assured that construction is being carried out strictly within the approved project, which had been agreed upon with environmentalists and public organizations.

"The construction of a lightweight library and a Chess Players' Club is planned on the arboretum's grounds. The projects are being implemented through private investment, and the land will remain municipal property and will not be transferred to the investor," the Akimat emphasized.

According to officials, the buildings will have a minimal impact on the landscape and natural environment. The main concept is to create additional cultural and sports facilities for family recreation. It is also noted that the construction is aimed at developing the public space, not commercializing it.

Furthermore, the major construction company BI Group has expressed a desire to build a modern playground with a safe surface and multifunctional areas for children of all ages within the arboretum. This work is also planned to be carried out without damaging the existing vegetation or expanding the existing area.

"Not a single tree will be cut down. All design decisions include the preservation of green spaces, as well as new landscaping," the department clarified.

Nevertheless, some residents remain wary. Activists advocating for the preservation of green spaces note that any changes to the arboretum should be carried out with maximum transparency, with due regard for public opinion. They propose regularly publishing progress reports and holding meetings with representatives of environmental organizations and residents of adjacent areas.

Environmentalists also point out that the arboretum has significant environmental significance: it acts as the city's "green lungs," absorbing pollutants and mitigating the city's climate. Therefore, any construction changes must be strictly limited and carefully monitored.

The Akimat, for its part, expresses its readiness for open dialogue. Authorities state that work to modernize the arboretum's infrastructure will continue, but only in compliance with all environmental requirements and regulations. The main goal, according to officials, is to make the park more convenient, modern, and safe for all visitors, without compromising its unique natural beauty.

The temporary flooding after the rains demonstrated that the drainage system requires further strengthening, especially given increasing precipitation and the growing strain on utilities. The Akimat assured that such incidents will be thoroughly analyzed to prevent them in the future.

Thus, the arboretum is truly a hot topic of discussion, reflecting the area's high importance to city residents. People care, and this is a positive sign. It's important that the development of public spaces be transparent, and that improvements be accompanied by reliable guarantees for environmental conservation. The arboretum remains a symbol of Shymkent, and every step in its renovation must be undertaken with the utmost responsibility.