“The Baysun accident is one of the worst man-made disasters,” says Uzbekistan’s Energy Minister Mirzamakhmudov – Daryo News

“The Baysun accident is one of the worst man-made disasters,” said Uzbekistan’s Energy Minister Mirzamakhmudov

Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov discussed the scale and response to the recent Baysun accident, calling it one of the most serious 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.

The Baysun accident was one of six serious accidents in Uzbekistan, with hydrogen sulfide complicating work.

“The high hydrogen sulfide content at the accident site severely corroded the equipment and repeatedly led to leaks,” explained Mirzamakhmudov. “Nevertheless, our specialists managed to install a plug and temporarily stop the leak.”

To speed up the response, international experts from Azerbaijan and the United States were brought in.

“The Baysun station remains operational and we continue our work, prioritizing safety to prevent future leaks,” the minister said.

The ongoing cleanup uses advanced technology and security measures are 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 emphasized his personal commitment to the safety of the local population. On the day of the accident, September 1st, he traveled to Baysun with a team of specialists.

“We immediately mobilized services, deployed evacuation and medical teams, and provided hot meals and temporary shelter to residents,” he said.

A comprehensive warning system was put in place following the incident. Gas level monitoring sensors have been placed around the site and operate continuously to ensure real-time data collection and updates.

“We worked on site for a month and monitored all facilities,” noted Mirzamakhmudov.

The incident sparked public concern, but quick action by the Interior Ministry and the National Guard prevented panic. The minister assured that safety was a priority and that evacuation operations and compensation for affected residents were underway.

“We have taken all necessary measures to protect residents and the danger will soon be eliminated,” he said.

Despite the difficult conditions, post-accident cleanup in Baysun continues, with a focus on minimizing future risks and supporting the community.

At 3:17 p.m. on September 1st, a violation occurred at hole number 604 of the “25th” mine. Year of Independence” in the “Kolkamish” of Baysun district of Surkhandarya region a hydrogen sulfide gas leak was observed in the technological process during drilling operations. To ensure public safety, residents living near the mine were evacuated to a safe area.

On the instructions of the President, Deputy Prime Minister Ochilboy Ramatov, Minister of Emergency Situations Abdulla Koldoshev, Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov, Surkhandarya Governor Ulugbek Kasimov and Uzbekneftgaz Board Chairman Bahadir Siddikov arrived at the scene. The leak was contained at 4:50 p.m. on September 15. However, on September 17, another gas leak occurred at the mine, killing four people.

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