Environmental issues are particularly significant for the Kyzylorda Region, given the problems of the Aral Sea and the region's agricultural sector. These topics took center stage at a meeting between the regional Akim (Governor), Nurlybek Nalibayev, and members of parliament, representatives from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, central and local executive bodies, as well as public organizations.

The dialogue focused, naturally, on discussing the current state of the environment in the region and finding ways to improve it, along with the rational use of natural resources that form the basis for the agricultural sector. For a region where agriculture plays a leading role, the issue of balance between economic development and preserving soil fertility, river purity, and the air basin is particularly acute.

Ali Bektayev, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agrarian Issues, Natural Resource Management, and Rural Development, noted the importance of legislative support for environmental matters and the need to synchronize regional initiatives with the national strategy.

The regional Akim drew attention to pressing local problems, the need to stimulate "green" investments, and the introduction of modern nature-saving technologies. The participation of public figures adds particular value to this work. Environmental activists and representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) expressed their readiness to contribute to shaping regional environmental policy and addressing pressing issues.

The meeting demonstrated the consolidation of efforts between the legislative and executive branches and society. Such close and constructive interaction, along with joint measures, will make it possible to achieve real progress in environmental protection and the implementation of specific projects. There are examples of this. For instance, the project "Regulation of the Syr Darya Riverbed and Preservation of the Northern Part of the Aral Sea" has been implemented in the region for many years. The project aims to preserve the Northern Aral. Its implementation has not only preserved the Small Aral Sea but also improved the environmental and economic situation in the region.

For example, while in October 2022 the water volume in the Northern Aral Sea decreased to 18 billion 500 million cubic meters, today it has reached 22 billion 900 million cubic meters. Work is currently underway to raise the Kokaral Dam. "Following the instructions of the Head of State, the technical and economic documentation for the project was developed using grant funds from the World Bank. Work is planned to begin this year. When the project is implemented, and the height of the Kokaral Dam is increased from 42 to 44 meters, the water volume in the sea will increase from 27 billion to 34 billion cubic meters," emphasized Nurlybek Nalibayev.

By Olzhas KUANDYK