An Almaty resident posting under the handle adia_12.24 on the social network Threads voiced concerns about the safety of newly laid paving stones in the city, infohub.kz reports. According to her, the tiles are currently gleaming, and residents fear they will turn into an ice rink in winter.
"Almaty akimat, thank you for the work you have done, for renewing the city! But I have a question: how safe are these tiles in winter? They are gleaming now — won't they turn into an ice rink in winter?" she wrote.
The post drew a response from the Almaty akimat's Department for the Development of Public Spaces. The department explained that concrete sidewalk tiles meeting established technical requirements are used in the improvement of pedestrian areas. The manufacturer carried out slip-resistance tests on the tiles in accordance with international methods.
The department specified that testing was conducted on wet surfaces, including at different sections and in several directions. The test results confirmed the anti-slip properties of the material.
In addition, heat-treated granite is used on certain pedestrian sections. Its surface has a rough texture that provides grip with footwear and reduces the risk of slipping.
"Thus, according to the test results and technical specifications, the materials used meet safety requirements and are intended for use in pedestrian areas. The quality and safety of materials used in the city's improvement works are under the department's control," the department added.