#Kazakhstan #Almaty #Bulat Utemuratov #gasification

Major Investment in Almaty’s Urban Infrastructure

On September 8, 2026, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation announced a significant financial allocation of 460 million tenge (approximately 1 million USD) to aid the gasification project in Almaty, Kazakhstan. This initiative is a collaborative effort with the city’s municipal government, aimed at advancing urban infrastructure and improving air quality and living standards for residents.

Gasification, the process of converting carbon-based materials into gas, is particularly vital for transforming heating methods in private households. In Almaty, many residents still rely on solid fuels during winter, leading to substantial air pollution. By moving towards natural gas, the city aims to drastically reduce these emissions and enhance air quality.

City Officials Collaborating for a Cleaner Future

To implement this project, the Akimat (the mayor's office) of Almaty will conduct inspections of private residences and provide comprehensive guidance to homeowners on the procedures for connecting to the gas network. This includes informing residents about the transition process from solid fuels to natural gas and ensuring they receive support throughout every phase, from consultations to actual gas hook-ups. DA licensed contractors will be responsible for the necessary construction and installation work.

In his comments, Darkhan Satybaldy, the mayor of Almaty, emphasized the city’s ongoing commitment to connecting private homes to the city's gas distribution network. He stated, "Our focused efforts continue to connect private residences to the gas network. The specifics can vary from case to case; hence, it’s essential to support residents holistically, from consultations to the actual connection, alongside the technical work. The involvement of socially responsible companies enables us to extend this initiative further."

A Commitment to Cleaner Energy

Switching from coal to natural gas is a pivotal step for Almaty in its quest to improve air quality. The reliance on solid fuels in private households poses a major source of pollution, especially during the heating season. Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, highlighted the organization's motivation to support projects that enhance urban infrastructure and provide a better living environment for Almaty’s residents. "Promoting the use of gas in the private sector will facilitate a transition to modern heating systems for families who are not yet connected to the gas network," she noted.

This gasification project is part of a broader long-term commitment by the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation to support initiatives within Almaty. Previous projects have included the complete renovation of the Almaty Botanical Garden, the modernization of the National Museum of Kazakhstan’s heating and ventilation systems, and the establishment of one of the first centers for autism care named 'Asyl Miras.' During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation also played an essential role by supporting the local healthcare system through the establishment of mobile PCR testing laboratories.

Through this substantial investment, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable development and improving the quality of life in Almaty, paving the way for a cleaner and more modern energy landscape.