At the Government session chaired by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, Minister for Emergency Situations Chingis Arinov reported on measures taken to strengthen emergency preparedness, El.kz cites primeminister.kz.
According to him, in the elimination of large-scale floods the Head of State instructed to prevent the death of citizens and ensure the safety of the population. The Ministry directed all forces and resources to the immediate evacuation of the population from emergency zones and rescue operations. Rescue operations were carried out in difficult weather conditions and in hard-to-reach places. There was an acute shortage of engineering equipment and transport aircraft in the disaster zones.
A large-scale transfer of forces and means by railway echelons and aircraft of the power block was carried out. Due to the overflow of rivers in Aktobe, Akmola and North Kazakhstan regions it was necessary to install pontoon bridges of the Ministry of Defence. This allowed for the evacuation of the population, as well as the delivery of food and medicine.
"Thanks to ordinary soldiers and rescuers who selflessly fought against the elements around the clock, the deaths of citizens were prevented and more than 500 settlements were protected from flooding. Analysing the consequences of floods, the Ministry is carrying out a set of measures,"Chingis Arinov reported.
The provision of uniforms and special equipment for rescuers has been revised. The purchased uniforms are of high quality and convenient for performing tasks. Quality special motor and engineering vehicles, including swimming vehicles, aeroplanes and helicopters are also being purchased. It is planned to train pilots for night flights and in difficult weather conditions.
"For the operational coordination of forces and means during the emergency response, the Emergencies Ministry Command Centre has been upgraded and equipped with modern equipment.At the same time, we are carrying out organisational and staffing measures to build a clear management vertical in the Ministry by uniting all subordinate institutions into one territorial unit.Special attention is paid to rescue services, which are currently scattered and lack the necessary conditions. In this regard, the approach is being reorganised and a unique fire depot with the dislocation of firefighters, medics and rescuers is being created. This will increase efficiency and timely measures to rescue citizens," the minister said.
By order of the President, the Committee for the Prevention of Emergency Situations has been created with control functions. Now administrative measures will be taken for failure to implement measures to protect the population from emergencies.
In addition, taking into account the scale of damage caused by floods, a mechanism of insurance of property against emergencies is being worked out jointly with interested government agencies.
Preventive measures, construction and strengthening of protective dams and embankments are carried out in the regions; dredging and bank reinforcement are carried out in dangerous river sections. Implementation of these and other measures will improve the readiness of rescue units and minimise the risks of waterlogging.