BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 31. Kazakhstan's
Altyntau Kokshetau enterprise in Akmola Region has carried out its
first underground blast at the company's deposit in Zerendinsky
District, the regional akimat's press service said.


The deposit has a history of more than 60 years. In January
2026, the first bucket of rock mass was lifted at the site, while
the latest blast marked the start of portal excavation for the
future underground mine.


"Transitioning to underground mining is a major milestone for
the enterprise. With the support of the regional authorities, work
has begun to expand the deposit and transition to underground
extraction. This will extend the mine's operating life until 2047.
The project will make a significant contribution to the development
of Akmola Region, create new jobs and provide fresh momentum for
the further development of the enterprise," Deputy Akim of Akmola
Region Yernar Zharkeshov said during an event.


The transition to underground mining will allow the company to
develop its reserves over the long term, maintain the mine's
production potential and expand employment opportunities.


Local authorities also provided support for the project by
allocating an additional 1,057 hectares of land to expand the
company's production area. This created conditions for further
development of the territory and the transition to underground
mining.







According to Arman Aliyev, CEO of Altyntau Kokshetau, the first
blast was the result of extensive preparatory work and marks a new
starting point for the company's workforce.


"Today is truly a landmark day for us. The first blast for
excavating the portal of the future underground mine is an
important step in the company's history. This event is the result
of extensive work by our team and marks a new stage that we have
approached step by step. Underground mining will allow us to
continue developing the deposit and create additional opportunities
for further growth. Naturally, it will also create new jobs,"
Aliyev said.


Altyntau Kokshetau currently accounts for 17% of Akmola Region's
industrial output and 23% of its manufacturing output. The company
is also one of the region's largest employers, with more than 1,700
employees.