Pink Lake Near Astana to Receive Protected Status

Lake Kobeytuz, a famous pink lake in the Akmola Region about 160 kilometers from Astana, will become a specially protected natural area on the president’s instructions, Orda.kz reports.

The boundaries of Buyratau National Park will be expanded to include the lake. Authorities say the move will help preserve its unique ecosystem.

The area around the lake will also be improved. A parking lot and observation deck will be built so tourists can view the lake without damaging the shoreline.

Access to the lake will be restricted while the work is underway.

Visitors will not be allowed to approach the shoreline or enter the area beyond the designated zone. Round-the-clock checkpoints will be set up at the entrances, and police will patrol the area together with the relevant authorities,the Akmola Region Akimat said.

Earlier tests of the lake’s water found excessive levels of several substances, including ammonia, ammonium nitrogen, chlorides, arsenic and sulfates.

Swimming in Lake Kobeytuz and collecting salt from its shores are prohibited.

Original author: Raushan Korzhumbekova

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