As Mambetov noted, the spring season will begin earlier than usual.
In Bishkek and the Chui region, there is a lack of snow; however, in some areas, its amount reaches 150-170% of the norm, he emphasized.
“Given the early warming, we should expect active snowmelt, which may provoke mudflow events and exacerbate the situation with landslides,” he added.
According to the deputy minister, rains, by being absorbed into the soil, increase its weight and create a danger of landslides in vulnerable areas. The Department of Monitoring and Forecasting has already notified local authorities and emergency services about the current forecast.
In the country, about 4,000 landslide-prone areas have been identified, where approximately 4,000 families reside. Of these, 2,500 families, who received land plots for relocation and loans, have actually remained in their previous locations.
The deputy minister explained that some people built houses on the allocated plots and settled their children there, but continue to live in their previous areas. When attempts are made to relocate, they refuse, citing the convenience of keeping livestock and emotional attachment to their native places. Citizens sign documents confirming that in the event of a landslide, they will not hold the authorities accountable.
Mambetov noted that the Ministry of Emergency Situations does not have the authority for forced relocation. The agency has sent materials to law enforcement agencies to investigate the reasons why citizens who received plots for relocation did not take advantage of this opportunity, despite the conditions provided. He emphasized that people are risking not only their lives but also the safety of their families, including children and grandchildren.
It was also mentioned that Kyrgyzstan is experiencing a period of low water levels.
According to data from Kyrgyzhydromet, the snow cover level in the Naryn basin exceeds the norm by 150-170%, which can be considered a positive factor for filling reservoirs. However, in the Chui region, in the basin of the Chu River, snow reserves are below normal, which may contribute to the continuation of the low water state.
The final forecast for water supply in the summer period will be presented by Kyrgyzhydromet in March, he added.
