The Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic, Akyl Toktobaev, held a meeting in the Batken region, where he discussed issues related to the rational use of subsoil, soil conditions, and industrial safety.
According to information from the Ministry of Natural Resources, during his trip, the minister familiarized himself with the work of the regional administration and outlined strict requirements for subsoil users. Each project in the mining sector will need to include an approved reclamation plan and establish a system for regular environmental monitoring to prevent soil degradation and protect groundwater.
Akyl Toktobaev emphasized that environmental safety remains a priority alongside production indicators. The acceptability of the operations of mining companies will be assessed not only by the volume of extraction but also by the quality of land restoration. The minister strongly urged to enhance control over the fulfillment of obligations to maintain soil fertility and prevent toxic contamination.
“We are moving to a model of strict oversight. All activities related to subsoil must include protocols for the protection of aquifers and soil. This is a fundamental requirement for subsoil users by 2026,” the minister noted.
As a result of the meeting, an action plan was approved, which includes:
- regular field inspections to ensure compliance with project documentation for land reclamation;
- the creation of a monitoring system for groundwater quality in the areas affected by mining operations;
- assessment of soil conditions to prevent the risks of irreversible degradation.
The minister stated that systematic monitoring of subsoil conditions will become an important tool for ensuring environmental stability in the Batken region.
