Kyrgyzstan Grapples with Multiple Mudflows
Kyrgyzstan has faced a surge of mudflows in a condensed timeframe, with Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations Urmatbek Shamyrkanov reporting a total of 67 occurrences between April 20 and April 23 across the country. These mudflows were predominantly concentrated in various regions, including Osh, Jalal-Abad, Batken, Talas, and Chui
Emergency regimes have been declared in several areas, including Osh region, Suzak district of Jalal-Abad region, Mombekovsky village okmotu in Nooken district of Jalal-Abad region, and Talas district of Talas region. The aftermath has resulted in the flooding of 1,092 households and the damage of 264 residential buildings.
Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations of Kyrgyzstan Urmatbek Shamyrkanov, citing the primary factors contributing to mudflows, highlighted the detrimental impact of illegal construction, inadequate irrigation infrastructure, and debris accumulation in waterways.
“Due to these factors, mud masses inundate the territories. Ditches and canals become obstructed, exacerbating the situation. The rise in livestock population further exacerbates mudflow occurrences. Additionally, sparse vegetation in mountainous areas limits water absorption into the ground,” Shamyrkanov explained.
Meanwhile, neighboring regions also grappled with flooding, with the Burana River overflowing its banks in the Chui region. In the Suzak region, heavy rainfall led to flooding in various rural areas, impacting residential buildings, social facilities, and infrastructure.
