Almaty's New High-Altitude Rescue Unit Saves Woman at 3,200 Metres

A new high-altitude rescue unit in Almaty has already proven its value. The facility, opened earlier this year at Shymbulak ski resort, is the highest of its kind in the CIS. It recently assisted a 22-year-old woman who fell ill at extreme elevation. The incident took place in the Medeu District, near the Kombi-2 area of Shymbulak. The woman, aged 22, reported feeling unwell at an altitude of 3,200 metres. Kazakhstan’s Emergency Situations Ministry (MChS) quickly mobilised a rapid response team and a medical unit to the scene.

Rescuers evacuated her to the resort’s parking area. After treatment, her condition stabilised. She later refused further hospital care. The rescue operation demonstrated the effectiveness of the new high-altitude unit. The woman recovered enough to leave without hospitalisation. The facility remains on standby for future emergencies in the region.