(26 February 2026 | Source: MIA "Kazinform")
An administrative fine was imposed on the Atyrau Oil Refinery (AOR) in the Atyrau Region for violating the requirements of sanitary and epidemiological legislation. At the same time, the enterprise stated its disagreement with the decision and initiated judicial appeal. Authorities note that it is still difficult to definitively identify the source of air pollution.
WHY THE AOR WAS FINED
The Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control of the Atyrau Region reported that an administrative measure was applied against the enterprise under Part 1 of Article 425 of the Administrative Code ("Violation of sanitary-epidemiological and hygienic requirements").
According to MIA "Kazinform", the violation concerns requirements of legislation in the field of sanitary and epidemiological welfare of the population and hygienic standards, which did not cause harm to human health.
The fine amounted to 1,600 MCI, equivalent to 6 million 920 thousand tenge.
The basis for bringing the enterprise to responsibility was a submission from the Department of Natural Resources and Regulation of Natural Resource Use of the Atyrau Region.
THE PLANT IS CONTESTING THE DECISION IN COURT
The head of the regional Department of Natural Resources, Yerbolat Umarov, stated at a briefing that the enterprise disagreed with the fine imposed.
According to him, a court process is currently underway. Additionally, the Department of Ecology conducted an inspection based on a letter from the Department of Natural Resources, and its results are being finalised.
He also noted that due to the wind direction, it is difficult to make a definitive conclusion about the specific source of the unpleasant odour, as several industrial enterprises are located in the area. According to January data, the wind was blowing from an east-southerly direction.
WHAT AIR SAMPLES SHOWED AFTER RESIDENTS' COMPLAINTS
Recall that on 25 January, following complaints from residents, specialists from the branch of the RSE "Kazhydromet" in the Atyrau Region conducted sampling of ambient air.
According to the results of laboratory tests, excess concentrations of hydrogen sulphide were recorded in the ambient air: in the village of Taskala, Kenozek Rural District — by 17.5 times; on the territory adjacent to the village of Taskala — by 15 times; in the Khimposyolok area — by 36.3 times.
The AOR denied any involvement in this.