The initiative follows directives from Kazakhstan’s Head of State and was formalized through a government resolution signed by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, as announced by the Prime Minister’s press service.
The development plan encompasses a wide array of measures designed to bolster seismological safety. Key initiatives include the expansion of monitoring capabilities, ensuring the seismic resilience of buildings and structures, integrating new digital technologies, and enhancing personnel training.
A pivotal aspect of the plan involves the creation of 15 seismic zoning maps. These maps will enable the prediction of 70% of earthquake sources in Kazakhstan’s earthquake-prone regions, forming the basis for certifying buildings and structures and developing new construction standards. Certification will identify vulnerable sites, prioritizing measures such as seismic reinforcement, equipment protection or relocation, and adaptive reuse.
Additionally, the plan entails the installation of 285 new seismic stations and the refurbishment of 70 existing stations. This infrastructure investment aims to improve earthquake hazard forecasting in regions like Almaty and other high-risk areas, facilitating timely response measures.
The initiative also emphasizes stricter oversight of construction practices, enhanced monitoring methodologies, and the provision of modern equipment for seismology experts.
Overall, the comprehensive plan is expected to significantly elevate the protection of citizens, structures, and infrastructure in seismic-prone areas of Kazakhstan. It includes enhancements to government and specialized organization response systems during seismic events.
Seismic safety remains a top priority for Kazakhstan’s government, given that approximately 40% of its territory is prone to seismic activity. High-risk areas include cities like Almaty and Shymkent, as well as regions such as Almaty, Zhambyl, Kyzylorda, Turkestan, East Kazakhstan, and parts of Abay and Zhetisu.
