There has been a breakthrough in the situation surrounding Bozjyra, the most discussed environmental case in Kazakhstan for the past two months. This breakthrough became apparent after experts and activists from the group #SaveBozjyra released an official statement on December 11, demanding the cancellation of construction at the site and the implementation of real measures to protect Bozjyra.
The announcement was preceded by a pro-environment protest led by members of #SaveBozjyra at the site.
The Adamdar/CA team captured the key moments from this event.
Video: Malika Autalipova, Segei Khachatryan, Timur Nusimbekov
Music: Mirha Robotopolus
On December 12, Magzum Mirzagaliyev, Minister of Ecology of the Republic of Kazakhstan, announced the transfer of the hotel construction site away from Bozjyra.
“Cancelling construction in Bozjyra is the rare case for Kazakhstan when the government listens to expert and public opinion,”
— wrote the Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan on their official Facebook page.
Environmental activists from various cities in Kazakhstan continue their work to protect Bozjyra.
Context:
Bozjyra is one of the most beautiful and unusual places on the planet. This unique site is located in Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region. Bozjyra has been referred to as a cosmic place and sacred land.
In the beginning of November, local residents and environmental activists in Mangystau filmed rubble and a significant amount of garbage in the area around Bozjyra. Plans to build the Rixos Safari on the territory of Bozjyra became public knowledge.
Experts and environmental activists spoke out about the threat to Bozjyra’s landscape and ecosystem.
The news provoked a strong public reaction among Kazakhstanis.
In December, a group of independent experts and activists from Aktau, Astana, Almaty, and Atyrau made a joint expedition to the site. The activists collected trash left behind after an “investor’s visit” and led a pro-environmental rally in defense of Bozjyra.
Other materials on this topic:
“Saving Bozjyra” — interview with Azhar Jandosova
“Bozjyra: On the border between the earthly and the otherworldly” — essay by cultural scientist Zira Naurzbayeva on the cultural and sacred meaning of Bozjyra
“Activists demand protection for Bozjyra”
The Adamdar/CA staff continues to follow the situation surrounding Bozjyra.
