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Astana's massive cleanup unites 31,000 to revive parks, rivers and streets

From the Yesil River to historic landmarks, a wave of civic pride is reshaping Astana. Can this campaign redefine urban sustainability in Kazakhstan?

The image shows a park with lush green grass, plants, and trees, a walkway lined with colorful...
The image shows a park with lush green grass, plants, and trees, a walkway lined with colorful flags, and shredded leaves scattered across the ground. In the background, there are buildings and a clear blue sky.

Astana's massive cleanup unites 31,000 to revive parks, rivers and streets

Astana is in the middle of a month-long cleanup campaign as part of the national Taza Qazaqstan initiative. Over 31,000 people, including volunteers, businesses, and local groups, have joined the effort to restore public spaces and waterways across the city. The campaign has already made significant progress. Crews have cleared more than 39 kilometres of irrigation channels and repaired nearly 5,000 square metres of pavement. Over 250 tons of waste have been collected so far, with help from 1,350 pieces of specialised equipment.

Volunteers have played a key role in the drive. The women’s wing of the Respublica party organised a cleanup with over 150 participants, gathering around 300 kilograms of waste. Students and members of the Zhashtar Rukhy wing of the Amanat party have also taken part in the efforts. The 'Möldır Bulaq' action is focusing on restoring water bodies and coastal zones, particularly along the Yesil River, Akbulak and Sarybulaq streams, and other reservoirs. A dedicated event, 'Taza Su Aidyndary', was held on the Yesil River to protect aquatic biodiversity and improve spawning conditions for fish. Beyond waterways, the campaign has cleaned over 1,200 courtyards and restored 170 parks and squares. The grounds of 53 historical and cultural landmarks have also been maintained. A symbolic moment came when a large Taza Qazaqstan flag was unfurled, representing unity and a shared commitment to keeping the city clean.

The cleanup has brought together thousands of participants, from volunteers to businesses and local authorities. With ongoing work on public spaces, waterways, and historical sites, the campaign aims to leave a lasting impact on Astana’s environment and infrastructure.

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