Turkistan Region: No Mass Livestock Deaths from Drought or Locusts, Say Officials

The Turkistan regional Akimat has denied reports of mass livestock deaths and claims of inaction by local authorities, Orda.kz reports.

Officials say no livestock have died due to drought or locust infestation, and the forage situation remains under control.

In Birlik village district, 4,600 cattle, 82,000 small livestock, and about 5,400 other animals are registered. Veterinary work and livestock monitoring are ongoing this year. No mass deaths have been recorded, said Keles district akim Zhanibek Agybayev. 

The Keles district Akimat also posted on Instagram that, despite the early June heatwave, soil moisture levels remain sufficient in most areas, particularly where drip and underground irrigation systems are in place.

Regarding the locust situation, over 700 thousand hectares of territory have been treated in the Turkistan region. Both monitoring and pest control efforts continue. Videos about “massive locust attacks” circulating on social media do not reflect the real situation and were often filmed in other regions or abroad.
the Akimat said. 

Authorities also emphasized that they remain in contact with farmers and respond to each request.

If needed, we provide support — from alternative pastures to fixed-price hay markets, logistical help, and other measures,the district Akimat said. 

Earlier, Orda.kz reported on how drought and locusts are impacting farms in the Turkistan region.

Original Author: Oksana Matvienko