President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has declared June 12 a day of national mourning for the victims of a large-scale fire in the east of the country.
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A forest fire in the Abay region began on Thursday after lightning strikes. The fire killed 14 workers of the Semey Ormany nature reserve. According to the latest data, the fire area exceeded 60,000 hectares. 300 pieces of equipment, about 1,500 people and 11 helicopters are involved in extinguishing the fire.
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The Kazakh leader arrived on a working trip to the region on Sunday. The head of state expressed condolences to the families and friends of the forestry workers who died as a result of the fire. “I came here on purpose to express my condolences to you. This is a great tragedy for all our people. Be strong at this difficult moment. I share your bitterness of loss,” Tokayev said, quoted by his press service.
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According to him, he instructed the government to provide families with all possible support, be it financial or any other assistance. “If there are appeals to the government and to me personally, speak up, express your requests, appeals. Naturally, we will satisfy all of them,” the president said.
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“Of course, unfortunately, the dead cannot be returned, but life goes on. But one thing I want to say for sure, those who are to blame for this tragedy will be held accountable in accordance with the law. I declare this Monday a National Day of Mourning. We will mourn together with you, remember the names of the dead. I ask you to be strong and remain calm,” Tokayev said.
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At the same time, he explained that appropriate measures will be taken in all areas, be it law enforcement agencies or ministries. “Now I will hold a meeting, and we will certainly learn from this experience,” the head of state added.
