Hearings on the Kambarata HPP-1 were held in Toguz-Toro and Toktogul

The Ministry of Energy held the second stage of public consultations as part of the implementation of the Kambarata HPP-1 project. Residents of four aiyl aimaks participated in the events: Atay District (Toguz-Toro), Sary-Kamyshsky, Imanalievsky and Toluksky (Toktogul District). The discussions brought together about 300 participants and focused on presenting and discussing the materials of the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) project.

The meetings were attended by representatives of the ministry, the Kambarata HPP-1 project management department, local authorities, and experts on social development, pasture management, environmental protection, biodiversity, and gender issues. The events facilitated open dialogue with communities potentially affected by the construction of the hydropower plant. Residents raised issues such as the possible loss of grazing land when the reservoir is filled, changes in livestock grazing routes, and the need for programmes to restore sources of income.

Socio-economic aspects were discussed, such as the creation of jobs during construction, with priority given to local residents. In some settlements, participants asked for attention to be paid to improving road infrastructure, schools and health facilities. Women actively participated in the consultations, including in special sessions that addressed the project's impact on household income and ensuring equal access to vocational training and employment.

During the events, participants were explained the project's complaint handling mechanisms and how to file complaints. Following project approval, dialogue with the local population will continue in accordance with the stakeholder engagement plan.

All suggestions and comments received during the consultations will be systematised and taken into account in the finalisation of the EIA and cumulative impact assessment documents.