As part of the implementation of the instructions of the Head of State, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to expand the coverage of geological exploration of the country’s territory using modern geological prospecting methods, the Government of Kazakhstan is launching a new stage of subsoil research this year at a more detailed scale, El.kz cites primeminister.kz.

Accordingly, taking into account the set objectives, 20 projects were developed last year to carry out geological surveying at a scale of 1:50,000 over a total area of 100 thousand km², with subsequent annual coverage of 30 thousand km² of the most promising areas. For comparison, the previous mapping scale developed during the Soviet period was 1:200,000.

Over the next three years, 240 billion tenge, or approximately $500 million, is planned to be allocated for the implementation of the above-mentioned 20 projects, as well as for conducting seismic exploration in poorly studied sedimentary basins and for the creation of modern geological infrastructure. By comparison, $469 million was invested over the past 15 years.

The projects include the analysis of Earth remote sensing data, aerogeophysical and geochemical studies, and a comprehensive set of field works. When forming the list of target areas, factors such as resource depletion, the absence or minimal number of subsoil users, and the potential for priority types of mineral resources were taken into account. As a result, areas with high potential for the discovery of deposits of copper, gold, lead, zinc, rare earth elements, barite, and bauxites were identified.

In addition, seismic exploration is planned in poorly studied oil and gas prospective basins, including the North Torgai, Shu-Sarysu, and Syrdarya basins. Plans also include modernization of the laboratory and analytical base and the digitalization of geological data.

The transition to geological subsoil exploration at this scale will significantly improve the accuracy of geological forecasts, which corresponds to international practices applied in the European Union, Canada, Australia, and China. Detailed regional mapping serves as a fundamental basis for identifying promising territories, reducing geological and investment risks, and subsequently attracting private investment into geological exploration and mineral resource extraction.