Minister of Construction and Architecture Nurdana Oruntaev attempted to answer her question, but his manner of communication caused confusion for Kozhokulova. Oruntaev stated that he was being interrupted.
“Please lower your tone and respond calmly,” the deputy replied.
“I am answering, and you are interrupting me,” the minister countered.
“It seems you are confusing who is interrupting whom,” added Kozhokulova.
Oruntaev continued that the Stalin-era buildings have already exhausted their resources and are in emergency condition. “Let me answer your question about the nine-story buildings and the Stalin-era ones. They have already outlived their usefulness,” he said.
“On what basis do you assess that they have outlived their usefulness? Are you the chief architect?” asked Kozhokulova.
“We assess them according to technical standards. These buildings were designed for a lifespan of 50 years, but many of them have stood for over 100 years,” Oruntaev replied.
The deputy noted that the minister was confusing Khrushchyovkas with Stalin-era buildings.
The Deputy Prime Minister Daniyar Amangeldiev joined the discussion.
“Of course, we will take into account the technical condition of the buildings. We are also interested in preserving the historical center, as you noted. This is a fair remark. We will rely on the technical condition of these objects. In addition, we talked about the need for a renovation law. This is an inevitable part of modernizing urban infrastructure. Certainly, all your comments will be taken into account,” Amangeldiev assured.
Kozhokulova added that her concerns are shared not only by her but by society as a whole.
“We are talking about historical and architectural monuments. This is the face of the capital. In every country, there are old and new areas. Why is this principle being ignored? I do not understand how the Minister of Construction can be an expert in such matters if the opinions of experts are not taken into account?” she expressed her dissatisfaction.
Amangeldiev assured that the opinions of specialists will be considered, and the historical center will be preserved in accordance with the master plan.
