(15 January 2026 | Source: press office of the Almaty Region Prosecutor's Office)
An inspection of the sewerage network in the Ili district of the Almaty region revealed excessive concentrations of dangerous gases. Environmentalists recorded pollution accompanied by a persistent unpleasant odour and complaints from local residents. Responsibility for the violations has been placed on the company that maintains the networks.
WHAT THE INSPECTION FOUND
The problem of the unpleasant smell emanating from the municipal wastewater systems leading to the Sorbulak reservoir has long caused concern among residents of the Ili district. During a joint inspection by the prosecutor's office and environmentalists, it was established that the wastewater disposal networks are on the balance sheet of SCE "Almaty Su".
Of the 48 air samples taken, 21 cases recorded exceedances of the maximum permissible concentrations of methane, hydrogen sulphide and mercaptan. These substances are considered potentially hazardous to health with prolonged exposure.
CONSEQUENCES FOR RESIDENTS' HEALTH
According to supervisory authorities, more than 400 residents of nearby rural districts are registered with various respiratory diseases.
The inspection materials do not specify whether a direct causal link has been established between the condition of the networks and the illnesses; however, this information is cited in the publication from the prosecutor's office press service.
RESPONSE FROM SUPERVISORY AUTHORITIES
Under a prosecutor's supervision order, the Department of Ecology held SCE "Almaty Su" administratively liable. The fine amounted to 14 million tenge. In addition, the company was issued an official order to eliminate the causes that led to the environmental violations.
Currently, measures are reportedly being taken to address them. The prosecutor's office has stated that it will continue to monitor the implementation of the orders and compliance with environmental requirements in the future.