In a recent screenshot circulating on social media from the government procurement website, the Almaty Rescue Service has announced a tender for the procurement of special equipment such as a ground-penetrating radar and a technical endoscope. The specifications for the equipment also include a microwave radar for searching for people under debris and a universal ground-probing georadar.
A total of 15 units of this equipment are planned for procurement, with a budget of over 105 million tenge. Speculations arose in comments and some media outlets suggesting that this procurement is in preparation for a potential devastating earthquake in Almaty.
Upon reaching out to the city's rescue service for clarification, it was explained that the acquisition of this equipment is part of the efforts to strengthen the material and technical base. The equipment procurement is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the rescue service in responding to various natural and man-made disasters such as landslides, avalanches, and explosions, where quick location determination of victims is crucial.
The radar mentioned in the publications is highlighted as one of the many tools necessary for the work of the specialists. It was also noted that this type of equipment has not been procured by the rescue service before. The rescue service emphasized that the radar is essential for their operations and is part of the investment in basic assets planned until the end of 2024.
In December 2023, a detailed report was published on the operations of the Almaty Rescue Service, shedding light on their vital role in emergency response and disaster management.
