The Committee on Agrarian Policy, Water Resources, Ecology and Regional Development of the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan heard information on the progress of implementation of the resolutions «On measures to reduce air pollution in Bishkek» and «On the environmental situation related to smog.»
Deputy Nilufar Alimzhanova reported that the Ministry of Natural Resources is going to purchase equipment for measuring air quality for $650,000. «Do we need this device? It’s clear that the air is polluted,» she asked.
The Ministry of Natural Resources responded that the equipment was being purchased as part of a World Bank project. «It issues a loan of $50 million, and we purchase equipment as part of the project. But $650,000 is an approximate amount. This is not for one device, for other equipment too. We will monitor air quality. Money is also provided for the construction of a laboratory building,» Deputy Minister Asel Raimkulova said.
«Social media users say whether we need such a device for credit money. It’s better to spend these funds on the consequences,» the deputy said.
According to Minister Melis Turgunbaev, the World Bank issues $50 million with a zero interest rate for 50 years.
«We are taking such a loan for the first time. It is issued with a 10-year interest-free grace period. The project consists of four components. One relates to the Hydrometeorological Service. This is to determine where the air is polluted. We will install the devices throughout Kyrgyzstan. The Hydrometeorological Service has 50 devices, but they are outdated. Therefore, new equipment will be installed in the regions. With its help, we will monitor air quality around the clock,» he stressed.
The official noted that smog in Bishkek has reduced by 10-15 percent.
«The landfill had burned for ten years. The fire is extinguished to date. This is 72 hectares of land. Currently, 850 trees have been planted on 2.5 hectares. They are watered using drip irrigation. After extinguishing, we can say that the smog decreased by 10-15 percent,» he said.
Following the discussion, the committee gave instructions to government agencies to combat smog.
