Court orders Ust-Kamenogorsk mayor to work after resident’s lawsuit

Following a lawsuit filed by a local resident, the Ust-Kamenogorsk mayor’s office in eastern Kazakhstan has agreed to adopt regulations governing public notification during man-made emergencies.

The resident sued the city mayor, alleging unlawful inaction and seeking to require authorities to ensure timely public notification in the event of industrial accidents.

The environmental conditions in Ust-Kamenogorsk have long been a source of concern for local residents. «Anyone who has been to Ust-Kamenogorsk knows the air there isn’t clean — you can taste metal,» Kazakh analyst Rassul Rysmambetov said.

During the proceedings, the parties reached a settlement agreement, which the court found to be consistent with the law.

Under the agreement, the mayor of Ust-Kamenogorsk must develop and approve regulations governing public notification during man-made emergencies at hazardous industrial facilities.

«The document provides for timely notification of the public, phased dissemination of information as circumstances become clearer, repeated notifications as new information becomes available, and the use of all available communication channels, including official websites and news media,» the court said.

Following the court’s approval of the settlement, the plaintiff withdrew the lawsuit, and the administrative case was dismissed. The court’s ruling has not yet taken legal effect.

Almat Akyshov has served as mayor (akim) of Ust-Kamenogorsk since December 2024.