After five years since the first attempt, Kyrgyzstan is revisiting the possibility of uranium extraction at Issyk-Kul. The country's president is the main proponent of the project, ensuring that the state will monitor the development without causing harm to the environment.
The Cabinet of Ministers has introduced a draft law to lift the ban on uranium and thorium deposits. However, experts are cautious, noting the lack of a detailed safety assessment for the project.
The uranium-thorium deposits are located on the surface, allowing for open-pit mining. Radiation levels range from 40 to 80 micro-roentgen per hour, reaching up to 130-150 micro-roentgen per hour in some areas. The extracted radioactive sand will be processed at the Kara-Baltinskiy Mining Plant to obtain uranium, thorium, titanium-magnetite, zirconium, and phosphorus pentoxide.
Despite the potential economic benefits, concerns remain regarding the environmental impact. The location falls within a biosphere reserve, where mining is prohibited by law. The lack of technical and environmental assessments raises questions about the project's feasibility and its effects on Kyrgyzstan.
Duishenbek Kamchybekov, head of the Association of Miners and Geologists, suggests forming an expert commission to evaluate the project's ecological and medical implications. The transportation and enrichment processes at the Kara-Baltinskiy Plant also pose environmental challenges, with no clear solutions in place.
Furthermore, the project's proximity to Issyk-Kul, a popular tourist destination, and the planned construction of the "Asman" city raise concerns about the region's appeal to visitors and investors. Experts warn that uranium mining could tarnish the area's image and deter tourists, impacting local livelihoods.
As Kyrgyzstan navigates the complexities of uranium mining, balancing economic interests with environmental and social concerns is crucial for sustainable development and preserving the country's natural heritage.
