Kazakh Government Responds to Earthquake in Zhambyl Region
On March 28, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was briefed by Zhambyl Region Akim Yerbol Karashukeyev and Minister of Emergency Situations Chingis Arinov regarding the earthquake that struck the region earlier that day, according to Akorda’s press service.
The government is actively monitoring the situation, with Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov tasked with ensuring the timely delivery of aid and overseeing the restoration of damaged residential buildings and critical infrastructure.
Earthquake and Aftershock Details
A 5.0-magnitude earthquake occurred on March 28 at 03:42 a.m. Astana time in the border area between Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic, with the epicenter located 323 kilometers southwest of Almaty. The tremors were felt across several areas:
- Taraz and Shu: Intensity of 2 points
- Merke and Kulan villages: Intensity of 5 and 4 points, respectively
- Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic: Recorded at 5.5 points, causing weak shaking of buildings
A second earthquake was registered at 4:00 p.m. Astana time, originating in the Kyrgyz Republic. While assessments are ongoing, no casualties or additional damage have been reported.
Damage Assessment and Government Response
The Emergency Situations Ministry identified structural cracks in 11 social facilities and 12 residential buildings in Merke and Turar Ryskulov districts. Authorities continue to conduct on-site inspections to determine the full extent of the damage.
An operational headquarters has been established, and a public hotline has been launched for inquiries. A government-led working group, headed by the Deputy Minister of Emergency Situations, has been dispatched to the affected areas to assess damage, support local authorities, and coordinate relief efforts.
Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure, including social facilities, roads, and essential services, under special government control.
