INVESTIGATION OF THE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF REED FIRE IN THE URAL RIVER DELTA NEAR ATYRAU

Abstract

The article discusses the causes and consequences of reed bed fires in the Ural River delta near the city of Atyrau. Based on the analysis of official data, mass media publications and expert assessments, the environmental, social and economic aspects of the problem are investigated. It has been established that the main causes of fires are anthropogenic factors, including careless handling of fire, agricultural burning and possible intentional arson. Climate changes, shallowing of the Caspian Sea, arid weather conditions and high land cover have an additional impact. Special attention is paid to the consequences of fires for the ecosystem of the Akzhayik State Nature Reserve, the deterioration of atmospheric air quality and the negative impact on the health of the Atyrau city population. The existing problems of fire extinguishing related to the inaccessibility of wetlands and insufficient logistical equipment of services are considered. Possible measures for the prevention, monitoring and management of reed fires in the region are proposed.