The pink lake Kobeituz will be granted the status of a specially protected natural area, following an order from Kazakh President Qasym-Jomart Toqaev, according to infohub.kz.
The Akmola region administration said the boundaries of the Burabay State National Nature Park will be expanded to include the lake’s waters, protecting its unique ecosystem.
Located 160 km from the capital, the lake is one of the country’s most photogenic natural sites and attracts thousands of tourists annually. The growing visitor flow requires infrastructure improvements. Along with granting protected status, the regional administration will develop the coastal area, installing an observation deck and parking so that visitors can view and photograph the natural phenomenon without damaging the fragile ecosystem.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management of Akmola region also studied the water’s hydrochemical properties. Analysis showed elevated levels of ammonium nitrogen, ammonia, chlorides, arsenic, sulfates, and other substances beyond permissible limits. Swimming in the lake and collecting salt from its shores are strictly prohibited.
During the improvement works, access to the lake will be restricted: approaching the shoreline or entering the buffer zone is not allowed. Round-the-clock checkpoints will be set up at entrances, and police along with authorized agencies will patrol the area.
The administration urged residents and visitors to comply with regulations and environmental laws, and to treat the unique natural site with care to preserve it for future generations.
Last August, mass raids were conducted at the pink lake after tourists once again openly dug up and removed salt, ignoring cameras.