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Almaty's Sairan Lake is on the cusp of a new season، following an ambitious 12 billion tenge (approximately $80 million USD) project aimed at transforming its shoreline into a modern recreational hub. However، an inspection of the revitalized area reveals that not all aspects of the project are fully operational، raising questions about its readiness and the fulfillment of its promises.

Project Scope and Timeline

The grand vision for Sairan Lake's embankment was to create a vibrant public space with developed infrastructure. The project initially planned for the completion of works by May of the previous year. However، the facility was only officially accepted in December 2025، with the total cost reaching 12 billion tenge.

Operational Status of Key Facilities

Upon entering the eastern shore، a modular police post is visible. While two planned posts have been installed، they remain unoccupied، with police officers expected to be stationed there only in April. Similarly، rescue posts are also vacant، awaiting the lake to be filled with water before they can commence operations.

Food and Beverage Areas

The plan included two food court zones، but the embankment map indicates only one designated area on the eastern side. Currently، this space features only benches، with no food pavilions or mobile catering points established.

Art Installations and Water Features

The "Northern Lights" art object on the eastern shore is awaiting its water filling. On the western side، a lotus-themed pool remains empty after its water was drained for the winter. This feature is also slated to be filled once the lake is replenished.

Financial Allocation and Underutilization

The extensive reconstruction of Sairan Lake incurred a budget of 12 billion tenge. A portion of this، 285 million tenge، was allocated to auxiliary infrastructure، including restrooms، police posts، rescue stations، and the lotus pool. Despite this investment، many of these facilities are not yet fully functional.

Lighting Concerns

An evening inspection revealed a lack of lighting in certain sections of the western embankment. This، coupled with the unoccupied police posts، raises concerns about safety for evening strolls.

Innovative Bridge Solutions

Pontoon bridge sections are currently stored on the sand on the western shore، with authorities promising their installation once the water level rises. Due to the lake's origin as a former quarry، its bed has accumulated sediment and sand over 55 years، making permanent bridge supports unfeasible. Pontoon bridges offer a practical solution، designed to be removed in winter and reinstalled in spring.

Contractor Disputes

The landscaping work for the Sairan reservoir became one of the most discussed projects by Almaty authorities in 2025. The contracting company faced legal action for delays، resulting in a fine exceeding 23 million tenge.

In conclusion، while a portion of the planned infrastructure has been installed along the Sairan Lake shoreline، many elements are not yet fully operational or remain inaccessible، leaving the ambitious project's full potential yet to be realized.

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