The Kengir reservoir will be cleaned with the help of bacteria and fish

Kazakhstan is preparing a pilot project to improve the water quality of the Kengir reservoir using biological and biotechnological methods. Specialists from the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nazarbayev University, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University and the Republican Collection of Microorganisms are taking part in the development.

The project is aimed at restoring the ecological balance of the reservoir. It is planned to introduce monitoring and cleaning technologies based on the use of natural and environmentally friendly materials. The main goals are to restore water quality and increase the biodiversity of the reservoir, which is a strategically important facility for the water supply of the city of Zhezkazgan and adjacent territories.

The complex of planned activities includes a detailed diagnosis of the condition of the reservoir with the help of modern equipment. Natural or synthesized adsorbents will be used to purify water from toxic pollutants. In addition, scientists will select and introduce bacterial strains that are most effective for the local ecosystem. The project also provides for the settlement of the reservoir with pond fish and the creation of special filtration zones at the mouths of flowing rivers.

For constant monitoring of the state of water in the reservoir, sensors will be installed that will monitor the temperature, oxygen level and hydrogen index. Additionally, monthly sampling for laboratory tests will be organized.

Such comprehensive studies and projects have not been carried out at the Kengir reservoir before. The initiative lays the scientific and practical foundation for the restoration of a unique reservoir for Central Kazakhstan using gentle biotechnological, chemical and engineering approaches.

It is expected that the implementation of the pilot project will take two years, and the main work will be carried out in 2026-2027. The Kengir reservoir is the largest in the Ulytau region, its volume is 319 million cubic meters. In March of this year, the facility was transferred to state ownership.

Original (in Russian): Кенгирское водохранилище очистят с помощью бактерий и рыб