Aqjayiq: Major Fire Extinguished in Atyrau Region After Ten Days

A large natural fire in the Atyrau region has been fully extinguished after burning for more than ten days, Orda.kz reports.

The fire affected over 1,500 hectares of land within the Aqjayiq State Nature Reserve. It became the largest and longest-lasting natural fire in the region in recent years. Residents of Atyrau and nearby villages reported persistent smoke, with many experiencing respiratory symptoms and discomfort.

Some families temporarily left the city to avoid exposure to the smoke.

According to the Atyrau regional Akimat, significant resources were used to contain the fire:

All available resources were used to extinguish the fire. Since June 13, two Mi-8 helicopters of JSC Kazaviaspas have made dozens of flights and dropped 396 tons of water. About 200 people worked on the ground – employees of the Department of Emergency Situations, the reserve service, the police and volunteers. Also, 40 units of equipment were used, including fire trucks, tractors and special vehicles. With the help of tractors, mineral strips were laid to prevent the fire from spreading to new areas. 

Though the fire is now under control, concerns remain among residents over how such a large blaze was able to develop and why it took so long to contain. The Akimat has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

A criminal case on suspected arson has been opened, though no suspects have been named.

To prevent further incidents, round-the-clock monitoring has been established in the reserve involving emergency services, police, and environmental workers.

The Aqjayiq State Nature Reserve is a protected area that includes parts of the Ural River Delta and the Caspian Sea coast. It is home to rare bird species and unique flora, and officials say the environmental impact of the fire may be significant.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov