She wrote: "Our institute is being evicted for good. Scientific staff are being allocated only 5–6 rooms in the Institute of Geology. I decided to share this information, as in the new conditions it is impossible not only to work but even to simply be present."
According to her, the scientists will have to urgently pack equipment, instruments, field gear, archives, and books that have been collected over many years.
Omorova noted: "Yesterday we spent the whole day packing everything: instruments, solar panels, boats, microscopes, archives, computers, tables, and chairs. For one laboratory dealing with hazardous exogenous hydrogeological processes, 2–3 rooms are needed, and we have five such laboratories. Each has its own equipment, materials, and books. Now all of this needs to be disposed of… What to do? Throw it away? Give it away? Leave it and go?"
Gulbara also expressed her sadness over the destruction of years of work: "Why am I still here? I love glaciers, mountains, lakes — everything related to water and ecology. I contribute to science and am writing my dissertation. But I can leave for anywhere. I write not only for myself but also for those who remain. My colleagues, who have no choice."
According to her, the institute's staff conducts applied research: studying climate, hydrology, monitoring glaciers, measuring river runoff, and researching hazardous lakes.
She also emphasized that their leader is the only specialist in the country on hazardous lakes and hydrogeological processes. "He is a professional whose invaluable experience should be followed. But it seems that no one is interested anymore. Young specialists are not entering science. They say: 'Why? It’s better to go into the service sector, where you can at least earn a living,'" noted Omorova.
Gulbara Omorova's post has sparked a wide response among scientists and staff from other laboratories.
