Tokayev orders fire posts opened in villages across Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has instructed that the Auyl qutqarushylary (Village Rescuers) programme be expanded to all regions of the country. According to the Akorda presidential press service, the programme has helped prevent about 450 fires over the past two years.

Tokayev said about 300 fire posts were built over the past two years and that this successful experience should be scaled up in all regions. He also called for stronger safety at industrial and mining enterprises and the use of digital technologies and modern solutions to improve rescue operations.

The government was instructed to strengthen the material and technical support of rescue services, including purchasing modern equipment and personal protective gear. Tokayev stressed that rescuers should be able to work with drones and automated systems, and said the Malik Gabdullin Academy of Civil Protection should play a key role in their training. The programme sets up volunteer fire posts in remote villages without permanent fire units. Kursiv reported that in August 2026, 237 volunteer fire posts were operating, protecting about 700 settlements.