Eco-Activists Warn Thermal Complex Poses Threat to Rudnichny Bor

Eco-activists warn that a new thermal complex costing a billion rubles (approximately $13 million at current rates) in Kemerovo could threaten the ecosystem of Rudnichny Bor. On Tuesday, January 27, activists reported to NGS42.RU the potential consequences of a major construction project near the protected zone.

As the activists explained, the area allocated for construction directly adjoins Rudnichny Bor, and the ecosystem does not end strictly at the formally documented border.

«Animals, birds, insects, undergrowth, soils, and the water regime form a single complex that also encompasses adjacent areas. The thermal complex will create intensive traffic and noise. Workers will be installing lighting, utility networks, and drainage,» said activist Andrey Zykov.

Moreover, the work involves an area of over five thousand square meters. The thermal complex also expects an annual attendance of at least 300,000 people per year, which will significantly increase the anthropogenic pressure on this corner of wilderness.

Among the consequences of the controversial decision, ecologists highlight the fragmentation of the natural environment, displacement of birds and animals, and destruction of undergrowth and soil layer.

Additionally, activists point out that the «Raduga» microdistrict already experiences kilometer-long traffic jams even without the new attraction. Along with the thermal complex, a separate road interchange will need to be built.

«Investment is needed for the city. We are not against the complex, not against new jobs. But a more suitable location could be allocated for this in the city. At this site, relict pines also grow, which will have to be cut down,» Zykov explained his position.

Residents of Kemerovo have published an open appeal to the regional governor, requesting that the territories designated for development be included in the nature protection zone.

Previously, the investor, entrepreneur Vasily Bochkarev, published a project for a water complex with a hotel on a plot of 16,000 square meters. Construction is planned to begin in May of this year, with completion by the middle of next year.