Built in 2021 using state budget funds, the Almaty crematorium has yet to be put into operation. The facility, costing 1.5 billion tenge, has gone unclaimed by the Ministry of Health.
This was reported on his Instagram page by Majilis deputy Sergei Ponomarev. According to him, the key issue is the absence of a balance holder, that is, an organisation that would take over the facility for maintenance and ensure its operation.
"As it turns out, the Ministry of Health doesn't particularly need it; negotiations are currently underway with the Bureau of Funeral Services," the deputy noted.
It is reported that the crematorium is equipped with two environmentally safe gas-fired ovens of Czech manufacture. The facility is fully ready for work — utilities have been connected to the building, and funeral halls have been furnished.
Sergei Ponomarev emphasised that such a facility is necessary for Almaty, especially given the city's growing population.
"There is a need for such a crematorium because there are a great many biological and medical remains. Sixteen bodies can be cremated daily. In the event of a pandemic or epidemic, such a facility is extremely necessary, especially considering that Almaty, with its agglomeration, will reach 7.5 million people in 10-15 years," he stated.
The deputy also reminded that Almaty has 70 cemeteries, 61 of which are already closed.
Recall that in March last year, the Almaty Akimat filed a lawsuit against the contracting organisation that built this crematorium. It was reported that the responsible company did not complete the work within the set deadline.