In the Mangystau Region, a mass die-off of horses has been recorded following strong winds and heavy rain. Authorities are clarifying the number of livestock lost and assessing the damage to farms.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to Lada.kz, the aftermath of the bad weather is being dealt with after the heavy rains and wind that occurred on 14–15 April in the Mangystau District. Cases of livestock mortality were recorded on a section of the railway line between the village of Sayotes and the 7th crossing.
Due to the extreme weather conditions, the animals strayed from their route and ended up in waterlogged terrain. It is noted that part of the herds may have perished at a distance of up to 60–80 km from populated areas.
It is also reported that some horses were swept away by water currents in the area of the village of Akshymyrau, where the animals became stuck in the salt marsh.
WHAT MEASURES ARE AUTHORITIES TAKING
To assess the situation on 16–17 April, a special commission was set up with representatives from government bodies. An emergency operations centre has also been established in the region.
Furthermore, an all-terrain vehicle, the “Trekol”, was sent from the Beineu District to Akshymyrau. Drones are being used to search for the missing livestock.
“All forces and resources have been mobilised to deal with the consequences: equipment from the region’s large enterprises, emergency services and local executive bodies have been deployed. Work on pumping out water and restoration continues at an intensified pace,” reported the Akimat of Mangystau District.
Oil and gas companies have also been instructed to bring in additional equipment. The head of the regional department of agriculture and land relations has travelled to the site to coordinate the work and meet with residents.
Issues of compensation for livestock lost that is registered in the farm animal identification database will be considered in accordance with current legislation.
WHAT DAMAGE HAS THE BAD WEATHER CAUSED
According to preliminary data, more than 100 heads of livestock have died. The final number is still being established. According to local residents, between a few and 10 heads of livestock have been lost in individual households.
In addition to the loss of animals, roofing was partially torn off buildings in the village of Sayotes, and areas in Akshymyrau were flooded following the heavy precipitation.