A large-scale contamination of water bodies with toxic substances has been recorded in the Aktobe region. According to Kazhydromet, high levels of phenols — organic compounds that affect the central nervous system — were detected in almost all rivers in the region.
The results of the study for the third quarter showed that the water in most rivers is classified as quality class 4 and is unsuitable for drinking without intensive treatment.
SCALE OF THE PROBLEM
As reported by Aktobe Times, Kazhydromet presented the results of an assessment of surface water quality in an environmental bulletin for the third quarter of 2025. Samples were taken from 126 water bodies — 82 rivers, 27 lakes, 13 reservoirs, one sea and three canals. The study was conducted based on 60 physicochemical parameters.
High levels of phenols were detected in ten rivers in the region: Ilek, Emba, Temir, Or, Aktasty, Kosestek, Ulken Kobda, Kara Kobda and Irgiz. The Kargaly River recorded an excess of suspended solids, and the Ilek River was also found to contain hexavalent chromium.
According to the document, "waters of this class are suitable only for irrigation and industrial use. For use for domestic and drinking purposes, intensive (deep) treatment at water intakes is required".
WHAT ARE PHENOLS AND WHY ARE THEY DANGEROUS
Phenols are organic compounds that give water a characteristic medicinal smell. In high concentrations, they are poisonous and cause burns on contact with skin. The main danger is toxic effects on the nervous system. With chronic poisoning, they cause headaches and lead to functional disorders of the central nervous system.
SOURCES OF POLLUTION
The main sources of phenols are oil and gas extraction and refining enterprises, as well as factories producing plastics, glue and rubber. In the Aktobe region, where the oil and gas and chemical industries are developed, these factors may play a key role.
Another source is fertilisers and pesticides, which are actively used in agriculture. When these substances enter the soil, they seep into rivers and lakes with rainwater and meltwater.
WHAT FBRK WARNED ABOUT
In May, the FBRK editorial team highlighted the issue of using aggressive chemicals in Kazakh cities. Our investigation showed that in Aktobe, imidacloprid — a systemic insecticide banned in the countries of the European Union due to its toxicity to aquatic organisms — is used to treat urban plantings.
The half-life of imidacloprid in soil ranges from 40 to 997 days, meaning the substance can accumulate and enter water bodies via groundwater. The Sazdy River flows through Aktobe, and eight kilometres from the city centre lies the Sazdinskoye Reservoir, which residents use as a water supply source.
Although imidacloprid is not a direct source of phenols, experts do not rule out that the combined impact of various pesticides and industrial emissions is worsening the environmental situation in the region. More details on the practice of using imidacloprid in Aktobe can be found at this link.
GAPS IN THE STUDY AND THE NEED FOR A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH
It is noteworthy that the Sazdy River was not included in the list of studied objects, despite the nearby treatment of plantings with toxic substances. Furthermore, the bulletin contains no data on pollution by boron compounds, even though the Ilek River remains contaminated with this element due to the activities of the Alga Chemical Plant.
The situation in the Aktobe region requires a comprehensive solution to environmental problems. The contamination of water bodies with phenols is a result not only of industrial activity but also, potentially, of the improper use of chemicals in urban environments and agriculture.
Local authorities (Akimats) need to review the practice of using aggressive pesticides in urbanised areas, especially near water bodies. There is also a need for tighter control over industrial enterprises and regular monitoring of all significant water bodies.