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Residents of Semey are expressing growing concern over the dramatic receding of the Irtysh River. The water has pulled back significantly from its usual banks, particularly noticeable in the Semipalatinka channel near Beybitshilik Island. This stark change has local inhabitants worried about the potential environmental consequences for the region.

Changes Along the Riverbanks

The transformation is striking. Areas that were once deep enough for residents to swim across just a few years ago are now shallow enough to walk through. Locals recall summers where the area beneath the bridge was a popular spot for recreation, a stark contrast to its current state. This unprecedented retreat of the Irtysh has fueled fears not only for the local ecosystem but also for the river's iconic appearance.

"The decrease in water is, of course, not a good sign. The river is our only source for drinking water and recreation. We used to see many seagulls here, but now they are completely gone... The Irtysh is shrinking... This is bad for the environment. Besides humans, there are animals and fish that need this water. It could have a negative impact on them," shared one concerned resident.

Reasons Behind the Water Level Drop

Officials from the Irtysh Basin Inspection attribute the current situation to several factors. The Irtysh River primarily receives its water from smaller rivers and tributaries originating in the mountains of East Kazakhstan region. This year, a weaker snowmelt season has resulted in reduced water flow into the river system.

Furthermore, specialists note that floodplains in the Pavlodar region were extensively flooded in the spring. Currently, the Shulbinsk Hydroelectric Power Station is operating in a water accumulation mode. Medet Zhadigeruly, head of the Irtysh Basin Water Inspection, explained, "The Shulbinsk reservoir is replenished annually through the third wave of the flood. However, considering the natural and climatic conditions, the inflow from the tributaries is significantly lower this year compared to previous years. Therefore, we expect the Shulbinsk reservoir to be filled by mid-season. After that, the reservoir will switch to a transit mode."

In response to the situation, water discharge from the Shulbinsk reservoir was increased to 650 cubic meters per second a few days ago. This measure has already led to a rise of 12 centimeters in the Irtysh River's water level. Experts anticipate further increases in the coming days, suggesting a gradual return of the river to its normal levels.

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