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The highly anticipated opening of the 'Zhas Daryn' children's camp in Atyrau has been postponed once again, leaving many wondering about the fate of the project. Originally slated to welcome its first campers on June 1, 2024, the facility is still under construction.

Officials attribute the delay to unforeseen circumstances, primarily the severe floods that impacted the region in 2024. The former presidential residence, intended to be transformed into the camp, was partially submerged, necessitating significant changes to the project's scope and timeline.

Floodwaters Reshape Project Plans

The transformation of the former presidential residence into a children's camp has faced multiple setbacks. The extensive flooding in early 2024 inundated parts of the property, forcing authorities to reassess and alter the original plans. This natural disaster has directly impacted the project's completion schedule.

Previously, approximately 96 million tenge had been allocated for the camp's development. Records indicate that since 2023, the residence has been under the balance of the regional education department, yet it has not opened its doors to children.

In September 2023, Oryntai Bimanova, then-deputy head of the Atyrau Regional Education Department, mentioned ongoing "landscaping works" on the residence grounds. At that time, it was reported that 36 individuals would be employed for these tasks.

By October 2023, the department's press service clarified the expenditure of the 96 million tenge. This funding was used to establish a special staff, acquire gardening equipment, a watering system, and external surveillance cameras. Additionally, 75 computers, desks, and chairs were purchased, with these specific works costing 76 million tenge.

Ongoing Construction and Future Outlook

Despite these preparations, the camp did not open in June 2024 as planned. The regional administration stated that during the 2024 floods, a portion of the residence's territory was submerged. Consequently, drying the area, constructing a protective dam, and revising the project became necessary.

According to the updated project, the former residence grounds will feature an educational center, three dormitories each with a capacity of 50 students, a canteen, a swimming pool, a sports hall, a stadium, and other facilities.

While the administration reports that some construction phases are complete, official images reveal unfinished concrete structures lacking windows and doors. The photos also show no workers or equipment, and parts of the territory appear neglected.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be around five billion tenge. Officials indicate that construction is currently being funded by the contractor's own resources, though the contractor's name and participation terms have not been disclosed.

The completion of construction and the facility's operational launch are now scheduled for 2026.

In related news, the Akim (Governor) of Atyrau region, Serik Shapkenov, resides in official housing, with maintenance costs covered by the local budget.