ASTANA, Kazakhstan, May 5. A gas-air mixture
explosion occurred at a dust collection facility on the territory
of the Kazzinc plant in Ust-Kamenogorsk, followed by a fire and
partial collapse, Trend reports, citing Kazakhstan’s Ministry of
Emergency Situations.
According to the ministry, upon arrival, emergency crews
established that open burning was ongoing at the site.
Firefighters managed to localize the blaze, while rescue teams
continue dismantling damaged structures and extinguishing remaining
hotspots to fully eliminate the fire.
Search-and-rescue operations are currently underway. Rescuers,
canine units, and medics from the Ministry’s Disaster Medicine
Center have been deployed to the scene.
Preliminary reports indicate that four people are being
transported to medical facilities. Information regarding possible
casualties is being clarified.
A total of 40 personnel and 10 units of equipment have been
involved in the emergency response.
An operational headquarters has been established by the Ministry
of Emergency Situations, bringing together representatives of state
bodies and cooperating services.
