Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov discussed the scale and response to the recent accident in Baysun, calling it one of the most challenging man-made disasters in Uzbekistan’s history. In his interview on the Lolazor podcast, the minister emphasized the complexity of the incident and the speed of the cleanup efforts.
The Baysun accident was one of six significant accidents in Uzbekistan, with hydrogen sulfide complicating the work.
"The high hydrogen sulfide content at the accident site severely corroded the equipment, causing repeated leaks," explained Mirzamakhmudov. "Despite this, our specialists managed to install a plug and temporarily stop the leak."
To accelerate the response, international experts from Azerbaijan and the United States were brought in.
“The Baysun station remains operational, and we are continuing our work while prioritizing safety to prevent future leaks,” the minister said.
The ongoing cleanup involves advanced technology, with safety measures closely monitored. Mirzamakhmudov assured that the final stages of the work would be completed in the coming days.
“Complex conditions and high risks require continuous monitoring,” he added.
Minister Mirzamakhmudov also highlighted his personal involvement in ensuring the local population's safety. On the day of the accident, September 1, he traveled to Baysun with a team of specialists.
"We mobilized services immediately, deploying evacuation and medical teams, providing residents with hot meals and temporary shelters," he said.
A comprehensive warning system was established following the incident. Sensors monitoring gas levels were placed around the site, operating continuously to ensure data collection and real-time updates.
"We worked on-site for a month, monitoring all facilities," Mirzamakhmudov noted.
The incident sparked public concern, but swift actions by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Guard prevented panic. The minister assured that safety was a priority, with evacuation measures and compensation for affected residents underway.
“We have taken all necessary steps to protect local residents, and the danger will soon be eliminated,” he said.
Despite the challenging conditions, the Baysun accident cleanup continues with a focus on minimizing future risks and supporting the community.
On September 1 at 3:17 p.m., a hydrogen sulfide gas leak was observed at well No. 604 of the "25th Year of Independence" mine, located in the "Kolkamish" of the Baysun District in the Surkhandarya Region, due to a violation of the technological process during drilling operations. To ensure the safety of the population, residents living near the mine were evacuated to a safe area.
Following the president's directive, Deputy Prime Minister Ochilboy Ramatov, Minister of Emergency Situations Abdulla Koldoshev, Minister of Energy Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Surkhandarya Governor Ulugbek Kasimov, and Chairman of the Board of Uzbekneftgaz Bahadir Siddikov arrived at the scene. The leak was contained at 4:50 p.m. on September 15. However, another gas leak occurred at the mine on September 17, resulting in the deaths of four individuals.
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