ЕЛЕК ӨЗЕНІ БАССЕЙНІНДЕГІ ЛАСТАНУ ДЕҢГЕЙІН ИНТЕГРАЦИЯЛАНҒАН ТАЛДАУ ЖӘНЕ СУ РЕСУРСТАРЫН ТҰРАҚТЫ БАСҚАРУ МӘСЕЛЕЛЕРІ

Abstract

This study presents an updated and expanded integrated environmental assessment of the Ilek River basin, a transboundary water system shared by Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation. Water quality analysis was carried out using accredited laboratory methods in compliance with GOST and national regulatory standards. A total of 42 physicochemical parameters were evaluated, including pH, dissolved oxygen, BOD₅, COD, suspended solids, major ions, nutrients, petroleum hydrocarbons, surfactants, phenols, and heavy metals.

The obtained results show exceedances of permissible limits for several key contaminants, particularly hexavalent chromium (VI), ammonium nitrogen, phenols, and magnesium. These findings indicate that pollution in the basin remains ongoing and is strongly associated with industrial activity rather than being solely a historical legacy.

Measured concentrations were compared with Kazakhstan SanPiN regulations, the EU Water Framework Directive, and WHO guideline values. Based on the assessment, recommendations for sustainable water resource management were formulated, including modernization of wastewater treatment infrastructure, enhancement of continuous monitoring systems, and strengthening of transboundary cooperation mechanisms.

This research contributes to evidence-based ecological risk assessment, environmental policy planning, and long-term restoration strategies aimed at improving the resilience of the Ilek River basin ecosystem.