Kazakh PM Bektenov inspects energy and social infrastructure upgrade in Ridder town

The main purpose of the visit is to oversee the Head of State’s instructions regarding the upgrade of energy and social infrastructure, promotion of metallurgical and pharmaceutical industry as well as transport and logistics and tourist sectors.

During the visit, Bektenov got familiarized with the pace of reconstruction of Ridder CHP. The Kazakh premier was briefed about the upgrade of the automated process control system of medium pressure boilers and reconstruction works at the plant following the accident on no.4 and 5 boilers. Commissioned in 1956, Ridder CHP supplies heat to around 50 thousand residents. The plant is among the country’s 19 CHPs in the red zone, as its wear and tear stands at 57.7%.

8.5 billion tenge has been provided, including 7.4 billion tenge from the government reserve and 1.1 billion tenge from the regional budget to reconstruct the energy infrastructure in Ridder town in 2024. 5.5 billion tenge is said to be funneled in boiler repairs, over 280 million tenge in reconstruction of distribution devices, and another 2.7 billion tenge in modernization of 19km of heat networks.

Once completed, Ridder CHP’s wear and tear will be reduced to 40%.

The Kazakh Prime Minister was informed that repairing of heat networks is proceeding on schedule and is set to be completed by the end of August this year. As of today, the wear and tear of the region’s energy infrastructure is 78.5%, which is set to be brought down to 24.1% following the works.

Premier Bektenov stressed the need for prompt completion of energy infrastructure upgrade for stable heating season. So far, the city’s engineering networks are 58.4% fit, 32 centralized boilers – 51%, hydropower plants – 69%, and the CHP – 52%.

During the working visit, the Kazakh Prime Minister also inspected the construction site of a general medical facility in Ridder. The facility which will include a clinic for 500 visits per shift and a hospital for 200 beds is set to replace Ridder’s only hospital with its buildings scattered across the town and built over 80 years ago.

The new medical facility which occupies an area of 40 thousand sq.m. is 60% complete as of today. It is expected that the clinic is to be commissioned this fall, while the hospital is slated for commissioning next year. The facility is to boast expert class equipment and qualified personnel. It is said that up to 500 employees will be hired.

In order to prepare for the upcoming heating season in the towns of Kentau, Ridder as well as Kyzylorda, Ekibastuz and Kokshetau cities, 22.6 billion tenge has been allocated from the government reserve.