Cry Me a River: The Life of Almaty near Tian Shan Glaciers in the Late 20th Century

• In Event: Environment, Technology, and Science in the Late USSR

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the relationship between a major Central Asian city and Tuyuksu Glacier, their movements in relation to each other, and their mutual influence in the late 20th century. As Almaty expanded, and the glacier retreated, the latter maintained its role in landscaping and city planning. Together with the rivers, it left its mark on the urban space with pipes, sewers, protective and hydroelectric dams, channels, and concrete thresholds. Additionally, infrastructure developments brought people closer to liquid and frozen water for enjoyment and study, including river promenades, ski lifts, and numerous roads and trails.

Author

• Mariia Koskina, U of Cambridge (UK)