The ecological situation around Lake Issyk-Kul, known as the pearl of Kyrgyzstan, has been threatened for several years due to wastewater pollution and the spread of algae. In response to this problem, a project called "Issyk-Kul Wastewater Management" has been launched in the country.
Positive changes can already be observed: the number of subscribers connected to the central sewage system in Balakchy has increased from 30 to 53 percent in just a few years.
Journalists from 24.kg noted that the new sewage treatment facilities (STF) in Balakchy use advanced A2O technology, which allows the resort region to transition to safer and more civilized standards.
Balakchy is tackling the "septic" problem
On the main road leading to Balakchy, two yellow buildings can be seen — these are the new treatment facilities. Although a specific odor is still noticeable, it indicates the proper functioning of the system.
Sabyrbek Omurkanov, the project manager, reported that the facilities in Balakchy have been completed and are currently under annual maintenance by the contractor. After this, they will be officially handed over to the municipal enterprise "Vodokanal".
A representative of the Chinese company "China Road" confirmed the successful launch: "Our organization has been implementing similar projects in China for over 10 years. Kyrgyzstan is the first country in Central Asia where we are working. We will eliminate the identified defects during the annual operation, but everything is functioning properly now."
Additionally, the contractor shared plans for the construction of STF in Cholpon-Ata, which is a promising sign for the entire resort area.
It should be noted that recent studies by South Korean scientists have identified the main threats to Issyk-Kul — wastewater and algae.
Drinking water supply in Balakchy
"About 58,000 people live in Balakchy and the surrounding villages, of which 49-50 thousand are in the city itself. We do not have mountain or river water, only underground water from artesian wells. We provide drinking water to 11,000 subscribers around the clock. The capacity of the new STF is 4,200 cubic meters per day," said Bakytbek Absamatov, director of "Vodokanal".
The key indicator remains the connection of residents to the sewage network:
"After the completion of the construction of an additional 10 kilometers of networks, it is planned to reach 70-80 percent connected to the system by the end of 2026," noted Bakytbek Absamatov.
Sewage, networks, and saving $2 million
The "Issyk-Kul Wastewater Management" project has already demonstrated concrete results, as noted by Sabyrbek Omurkanov:
The project manager also highlighted an important financial aspect: "The saved funds of about $2 million will be directed towards the construction of another 20 kilometers of networks — 10 kilometers each in Balakchy and Karakol. The tender procedure is currently underway, and approvals are being coordinated with ADB."
A2O technology: how microorganisms purify water
At the press conference, journalists were introduced to the new station in Balakchy that uses A2O technology for wastewater treatment:
1. Mechanical cleaning. Large particles of debris are retained on the screens, while small stones are caught in the sand traps.
2. Biological cleaning (A2O technology). Wastewater is mixed with activated sludge — microorganisms. This technology sequentially removes phosphorus compounds (in the anaerobic zone) and nitrates (in the anoxic zone) until the main organic substances decompose in the aerobic zone.
3. Further purification. The purified water is separated from the sludge and becomes safe for discharge into the environment.
"The sludge after purification undergoes dewatering and composting, which will allow it to be used as fertilizer or safely disposed of in the future," added Sabyrbek Omurkanov.
