Kazakhmys Corporation has embarked on one of the largest investment projects in recent years with the construction of the ‘Air Supply Shaft-2’ at the Nurkazgan deposit in the Karaganda region. The project, which involves an investment exceeding 32.5 billion tenge, aims to enhance the development of the Eastern section of the deposit and marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Nurkazgan mine.
The new shaft, projected to reach a depth of 1,283.9 meters, will become the deepest mine shaft in Kazakhstan. Its construction is expected to facilitate the further exploration of ore reserves, improve industrial safety standards, and establish a modern infrastructure that will support the mine’s operations for decades to come. A ceremonial event to mark the commencement of construction was attended by key figures, including Nurmukhamet Abdibekov, Chairman of the Board of Kazakhmys, and other senior executives.
Abdibekov highlighted the project’s significance, stating that it represents a long-term investment in safety, production development, and the strengthening of the company’s resource base. The primary objective of the project is to uncover the ore reserves in the Eastern section, ensure a fresh air supply to underground workings, and create a safe environment for workers.
Construction will involve the excavation of over 65,000 cubic meters of rock and the establishment of nine connections with existing mine horizons. The completion of the shaft is anticipated by 2031, after which it will be equipped with advanced technological systems, including a cage lift, main ventilation unit, and a modular heating boiler to warm the air entering the mine.
Looking ahead, Kazakhmys plans to initiate the construction of the ‘Ventilation Shaft-2′ in 2027, which will complement the newly built shaft and create a unified engineering infrastructure. This infrastructure will ensure effective ventilation and safe operations at the mine, enabling the further exploration of new ore reserves.
The confirmed reserves at the Nurkazgan deposit, which contain copper, gold, and silver, support the sustainable operation of the mining and processing complex for over 40 years. The project’s implementation is a crucial step in Kazakhmys’ long-term investment programme aimed at enhancing production capacities, improving industrial safety, and reinforcing the company’s resource base.
