Balkhash overview
Balkhash city (also spelled Balqash) is located in Karaganda oblast (region) of Kazakhstan. Balkhash city is situated in the southern part of Sariarka plain, 380 km from Karaganda city. Balkhash city stands on the coast of Balkhash lake. There are railway station, port and airport in Balkhash.
Balkhash population is about 66,000 (2009) on the land area of 230 sq. km.
Balkhash phone code - +7 71036; postal codes - 100300-100316.
Balkhash history
In 1928 a prospecting expedition from Leningrad city of USSR has arrived to northern coast of Balkhash lake in Kazakhstan republic. The expedition was headed by engineer-geologist Michael Rusakov. The main purpose was to investigate the deposits of copper ore. First results were encouraging and prospecting work was continued. The expedition came to the conclusion that the copper deposit at Balkhash lake had rich stocks of ore and cooper-smelting factory should be built.
In October 1931 “PribalkhashStroi” company was created to construct copper-smelting factory in Balkhash lake area. Bay Bertis of Balkhash lake was chosen to be the place where the factory and town for factory workers and their families would stand. In March 1938 concentrating factory equipment approbation was started. Same year first cooper concentrate was received. 24th November of 1938 was the date when first Balkhash copper was given.
There are about 400 enterprises on the territory of Balkhash city of Kazakhstan including integrated iron-and-steel works “Balkhashcvetmet” and mining enterprises. Also there are some enterprises of food industry closely connected with fishing in Balkhash lake.
Balkhash streets
Balkhash city, Kazakhstan street
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Balkhash city street
Author: unknown
Balqash city street scenery
Author: unknown
Balkhash features
After World War II Japanese captives took part in the construction of Balkhash city. In particular they constructed the Metallurgists’ Palace and the airport.
In the city there is a sport complex “Bars”, “Metallurgist”, a swimming pool, a water sports station, air club “Kazakhmys” specializing in parachute jumping.
There is also a museum of local study, a net of libraries and restaurants, stadiums “Metallurgist” and “Constructor”. In summertime one can enjoy cutters and boats.
About 70 km to the north of Balkhash city there is the site of ancient settlement Bektau-Ata, with recreation area and children’s summer camp.
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