Multipurpose dam on Turgen: selezashchita, hydroelectric power station, tourism

In Kazakhstan, it is planned to build a large-scale village protection complex in the basin of the Turgen River, the initiative for which was presented to the Minister of Emergency Situations Genghis Arinov. The project provides not only for the construction of a self-protection dam, but also a hydroelectric power station, as well as an observation deck for tourists. Such an integrated approach, according to the project developers, should ensure the protection of the population and infrastructure from destructive mudflows, while creating new sources of electricity and contributing to the development of the region’s tourism potential.

Minister Arinov noted the strategic importance of the facility, stressing the need to stay ahead of natural disasters. “Turgen is one of the priority areas where there is no village protection infrastructure. And a very important point is that in addition to the direct function of protection, this project will work for the development of the region energetically, socially and economically,” he said. However, despite the stated benefits, such a large-scale intervention in the mountain ecosystem raises certain concerns about its long-term environmental consequences, which at the moment remain insufficiently clarified.

The basin of the Turgen River is characterized as a category I mudflow hazard zone. 48 glaciers and 20 moraine and glacial lakes are concentrated in its upper reaches, of which six are recognized as explosive. The absence of any flood-proof structures currently makes the territory, including infrastructure and tourist facilities along the riverbeds, extremely vulnerable. It is expected that the implementation of the project will significantly increase the level of security and bring economic benefits to the region.

Financing of construction is supposed to be carried out at the expense of private investments, which will reduce the burden on the state budget. Nevertheless, despite the obvious need for protection from mudslides, the construction of a dam and a hydroelectric power station on a mountain river will inevitably affect the local flora and fauna, water regime and landscape. Questions about the extent of this influence, the environmental assessment carried out and measures to minimize possible damage to the natural environment of the Turgen Gorge require more detailed and public coverage.

Alexander Eskendirov (Rivers.Help!)

Original (in Russian): Многоцелевая плотина на Тургене: селезащита, ГЭС, туризм