Mongolia News Summary for July 22, 2024
The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.
Emergency Committee: Warning About Dangerous Weather Phenomena
Published: Sat, 20 Jul 2024
The State Emergency Committee warns about dangerous weather phenomena.
On the night of July 20-21, there will be thunderstorms with heavy rain in Khuvsgul, Bulgan, and Orkhon provinces, and on July 21 in the eastern half of the country. The committee especially warns to be cautious of the dangers of floods, hail, gusty winds, and lightning.
According to the preliminary forecast from the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring, most parts of the country will experience rain and temperatures reaching up to 37 degrees Celsius next week.
Specifically, on July 22, there will be rain and thunderstorms in the northern parts of western and central provinces, most parts of eastern provinces; on July 23, in some areas of western, central, and eastern provinces; on July 24, in some areas of central and eastern provinces; and on July 25, in the northern parts of central provinces and most parts of eastern provinces. Winds will temporarily intensify before the rain. On July 22 and 25, the eastern part of the country, and on July 23-24, the northern part of the country will cool down slightly. Nighttime temperatures in the mountainous areas of Mongol Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii, the headwaters of Zavkhan River, around Khurenbulchir, and Terelj River valley will be +4...+9 degrees, daytime temperatures +17...+22 degrees. In the Great Lakes Depression and Gobi regions, nighttime temperatures will be +19...+24 degrees, daytime temperatures +32...+37 degrees. In other regions, nighttime temperatures will be +10...+15 degrees, daytime temperatures +23...+28 degrees.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739950/
Warning: There is a risk of flash floods in dry riverbeds, ravines, and gullies
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
The water level of the Uur River, originating from the Khuvsgul mountains, and the Sogoog River, fed by the Altai range, has increased by 10-20 cm compared to the previous day.
The Orkhon, Selenge, Khoitamir, Urdtamir rivers from the northern side of the Khangai range, and the Khojuul, Zavkhan, Zuil rivers from the southern side, as well as the Dundtsenkher, Doloonnuur, Bulgan, Uench, Khovd (Bayannuur) rivers originating from the Altai range, the Tuul, Selbe, Khuder, Yeroo rivers from the western slope of the Khentii range, the Khurk, Barkh, Eg, Balj, Onon, Kherlen, Ulz rivers from the eastern slope, the Khalkh river originating from the Great Khingan range, and the Namir and Kharig rivers in the Uvs Lake basin are 5-55 cm above the long-term average level. The Tuul (Zaamar), Kherlen (Choibalsan), Buyant (Khovd), Khovd (Myangad), and Kharkhiraa (Tarialan) rivers are 5-20 cm above flood level.
There will be rain and thunderstorms in Khuvsgul and Bulgan provinces today, in the northern part of Tuv province and the southwestern part of Selenge province tomorrow, and in Khentii and Sukhbaatar provinces. Due to this, the water levels of the above-mentioned rivers may increase sharply in a short period depending on the intensity and amount of rainfall, posing a risk of flooding.
Additionally, there is a risk of flash floods in dry riverbeds, ravines, and gullies. We strongly urge herders and travelers to be cautious of flood dangers and not to camp along riverbanks.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739977/
Forest and Steppe Fires Occurred in 11 Provinces
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
Forest and steppe fires have occurred in 11 provinces as of July 17, 2024.
Specifically, 90 instances of forest and steppe fires have been recorded in 36 soums of Bulgan, Darkhan-Uul, Dornod, Sukhbaatar, Selenge, Khovd, Khuvsgul, Khentii, Arkhangai, Uvs, and Tuv provinces.
These forest and steppe fires have burned a total of 685,521 hectares, including 583 hectares of forest and 684,737 hectares of steppe. Additionally, five gers, four fences and sheds, and 19 small livestock were affected. Preliminary estimates indicate that the damage amounts to 353 million tugriks, including 265.7 million tugriks to nature and ecology, 73.9 million tugriks in material damage, and 13 million tugriks spent on extinguishing the fires.
Emergency service personnel saved one building, 15 gers, seven fences and sheds, and 200 livestock from the fires. In total, 798 emergency service personnel, 98 border protection personnel, nine police officers, and 1,527 local residents participated in extinguishing the forest and steppe fires.
Translated from: https://www.montsame.mn/mn/read/348059
NEMA: Over 90 forest and steppe fires occurred nationwide
Published: Sat, 20 Jul 2024
As of July 17, 2024, 90 forest and steppe fires have been recorded in 36 soums of 11 aimags including Bulgan, Darkhan-Uul, Dornod, Sukhbaatar, Selenge, Khovd, Khuvsgul, Khentii, Arkhangai, Uvs, and Tuv.
These forest and steppe fires affected a total area of 685,521 hectares, including 583 hectares of forest and 684,737 hectares of steppe. Five gers, four barns and sheds, and 19 small livestock were also impacted. Preliminary estimates indicate damages of 265.7 million tugriks to the natural environment, 73.9 million tugriks in material losses, and 13 million tugriks spent on firefighting efforts, totaling 353 million tugriks in damages.
Emergency services personnel rescued one building, 15 gers, seven barns and sheds, and 200 livestock from the fires.
A total of 2,390 people participated in forest and steppe fire extinguishing operations, including 798 emergency services personnel, 98 border protection personnel, nine police officers, and 1,527 local residents.
Translated from: https://eguur.mn/518362/
NEMA: 20 People Rescued from Flooding
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
As of 13:00 today, due to the rain that fell in the capital city yesterday, three emergency calls were registered in Nalaikh district of the capital. A total of 34 officers performed their duties and ensured the safety of 20 citizens trapped in floodwaters.
In the 8th khoroo of the district, work was organized to remove sand and gravel that had flowed into the flood dam of the "Anu" complex and to build drainage ditches.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2740024/
Warning Issued Against Traveling to Lake Khövsgöl Due to Flooding
Published: Sat, 20 Jul 2024
The Khövsgöl Province Police Department warns against traveling to Lake Khövsgöl due to flooding at the 35-40 km mark of the A1101 highway in the Alag-Erdene soum's Khookh area today (July 20, 2024).
This year, Khövsgöl province has been experiencing drought and poor pasture conditions. However, today some soums received light rain that alleviated the drought, while others experienced sudden heavy rains causing flooding.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739957/
NEMA: Young People Aged 17-21 Are Drowning and Getting into Accidents in Water
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) gave a briefing on current issues.
According to officials, there will be rain and thunderstorms in some parts of the western provinces, most of the central provinces, and the western part of the Gobi provinces on July 20th, in most of the central and eastern provinces and the eastern part of the Gobi provinces on the 21st, in the northern part of the western and central provinces and most of the eastern provinces on the 22nd, and in the northern part of the western provinces and some areas of the central and eastern provinces on the 23rd.
Due to the extreme heat across the country in the coming days, there is a possibility of sudden heavy rains. Wind speeds are also expected to increase before the rain, with a chance of thunder and lightning.
Weather organizations report that there will be precipitation across the country in July, and above-average rainfall is expected in the central and eastern provinces in August. As many provinces and soums are celebrating historical anniversaries this year, and many people are traveling to rural areas, caution is advised.
A study of water accident statistics over the past 10 years shows that a total of 10,034 people have been involved in water accidents nationwide. Of these, young people aged 17-21 account for the majority, with 67% being male. Regarding rivers, 26% of accidents occurred in the Tuul River, with many fatalities also reported in the Kharaa and Yeroo rivers, experts noted.
Warning signs have been installed, and boat patrols are operating. Incidents occur when people disregard the requirements. For example, on July 15th, a boat patrol was working and issuing warnings to people along the river banks. Shortly after warning people not to enter the river while intoxicated, an emergency call was received. One of the people who had been warned had drowned. Therefore, we urge people to follow the recommendations and warnings of professional organizations.
Since the beginning of this year, a total of 82 water accidents have been recorded, with 68 people drowning. This includes 55 adults and 13 children. Last year in 2023, 66 people died. Attention is needed to prevent this number from increasing until August 15th of this year. Of all the victims, 14% knew how to swim. There are also cases where children fall from inflatable pools or boats due to a moment of inattention from parents.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739849/
Railway Foundation Soil Washed Away by Flood at 8th Hundred of 60th km on Belendaly-Orkhontuul Road
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
The Ulaanbaatar Railway Joint Stock Company reported that due to heavy rains continuing from July 20, the railway foundation soil was washed away by flood at the 8th hundred of the 60th km on the Belendaly-Orkhontuul road in the Erdenet section.
As a result, train traffic in that section has been temporarily suspended, and urgent repair work on the track has begun.
Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/371u
WARNING: Road damage on Mörön-Khatgal route due to flooding
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
Flooding has caused damage to the road surface, embankments and dams at 5 points along the Mörön-Khatgal road - 2 points between the 19-20 km mark and 3 points between the 43-45 km mark.
The company responsible for the road, "Khövsgöl Road" LLC, has quickly responded on site to clear mud, silt and rocks from the road surface. They plan to begin repair work on the road infrastructure in the coming days.
Warning signs have now been placed at the damaged areas. Citizens and drivers are advised to proceed with caution when traveling through these sections.
Currently, warning signs have been placed at the damaged points. Citizens and drivers, please travel carefully and cautiously through these areas.
Source: Road Transport Development Center
Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/1ejvv
20 citizens trapped in flood waters rescued safely in Nalaikh district
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
Due to the rain that fell yesterday, as of 13:00 today, 3 calls were registered in Nalaikh district of the capital city. A total of 34 officers performed their duties and ensured the safety of 20 citizens trapped in the water.
In the 8th khoroo of the district, work was organized to remove sand and gravel that had flowed into the flood embankment of the Anu complex and to build drainage ditches.
Source: Ulaanbaatar Emergency Management Agency
Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/57ykw
Money Supply Increased by 10 Trillion Tugrik
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The National Statistics Office today presented the socio-economic indicators of Mongolia for June 2024.
According to preliminary performance, the money supply (M2) at the end of June this year reached 41.4 trillion tugrik. This is an increase of 10.0 trillion tugrik or 31.7 percent compared to the same period last year. The main factors contributing to this increase were:
- Tugrik deposits increased by 5.2 trillion tugrik or 36.2 percent
- Tugrik current accounts increased by 3.3 trillion tugrik or 44.3 percent
The National Statistics Office reported that the outstanding loan balance totaled 33.5 trillion tugrik, an increase of 7.9 trillion tugrik or 30.9 percent compared to the same period last year. The outstanding loan balance was 31.4 trillion tugrik in the previous month's report.
Non-performing loans amounted to 2.0 trillion tugrik. This is a decrease of 256.8 billion tugrik or 11.6 percent compared to the same period last year. In May, non-performing loans also stood at 2.0 trillion tugrik, having decreased by 296.8 billion tugrik or 13.2 percent compared to the same period last year.
Total deposits amounted to 19.6 trillion tugrik, of which 85.5 percent were individual deposits and 14.5 percent were deposits from private companies and organizations.
Translated from: https://www.montsame.mn/mn/read/348060
Coal Prices Fall, Gold Prices Rise
Published: Sat, 20 Jul 2024
According to the National Statistics Office, the price of coal exported by Mongolia has fallen in the first six months of this year, while gold and copper prices have risen. Specifically, the price of gold increased by $275.2 per ounce compared to the same period last year, and the price of copper concentrate increased by $100.6 per ton. However, the price of coal decreased by $31.2 per ton, and the price of iron ore and concentrate decreased by $31.2 per ton.
Coal accounts for 64.6% of exports to China, while copper concentrate accounts for 19.9%. For exports to Switzerland, 99.6% consists of unprocessed or semi-processed gold.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739940/
Residents of Gas Explosion-Affected Building Express Protest
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
Residents of building 207, who lost their homes due to a gas explosion, are expressing their protest. They have written and posted messages addressed to government officials who have been unable to take action so far outside their building.
A serious accident occurred in January 2024 when a gas transport truck exploded on the road near the "Dunjingarav" shopping center in the 26th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, Ulaanbaatar. As a result of the explosion, many people have suffered losses of life, health, and property. The city has decided to repair building 207, where 63 families lost their homes due to the gas explosion, but it is unclear when the work will begin.
Residents say they have no information, and their rental apartment lease expires on September 30th. One month's rent was taken as a deposit. Since the police protection around the building was removed, homeless people have been staying in the building, and there have been thefts in apartments that were not affected by the fire.
Seven billion tugriks were allocated from the city budget for repairing this building through a budget amendment.
City Mayor Kh. Nyambaatar provided information on this, saying, "In the 2024 budget amendment for the capital city, we made a budget adjustment of 58.8 billion tugriks between current expenditures and increased the general budget administrator's current expenditure by 11.5 billion tugriks. One of the major expenses included in the budget draft is to increase the Mayor's reserve fund by seven billion tugriks to eliminate the damage caused to the residents of building 207 in the 26th khoroo of Bayanzurkh district, which was burned in the accident on January 24, 2024, near the intersection of "Dunjingarav" shopping center, according to the preliminary cost estimate from the working group of the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development."
It was reported that the government had budgeted five billion tugriks for issues related to the gas explosion, and 2.9 billion remaining from the expenditure was transferred to the city.
When the residents of this building held a press conference on May 9, 2024, they said, "According to the conclusion from the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development, the quality of the concrete meets safety standards, and there is no distortion or deviation in the building's structure due to the explosion. It meets building codes and regulations. As a result of the gas transport truck explosion, 218 residents from 63 households in building 207 were affected by the disaster. This includes 17 elderly, 2 people with disabilities, 83 young children, 1 bedridden patient, 3 pregnant women, and 112 working-age citizens, totaling 218 people who were left homeless in the bitter cold of winter. We are worried that our future has not been resolved until now.
We have read and familiarized ourselves with the conclusions of the State Emergency Commission one by one. The actual conclusion for this building stated that only three households were completely affected by the fire. Among them, one household in the main structure of the building was affected by the fire. These households were from the 13th floor extension part. The conclusion from the Ministry of Construction and Urban Development stated that measures need to be taken to strengthen the building."
The joint working group of law enforcement agencies has appointed experts to conduct 62 examinations of 6 types to determine the cause and extent of damage from the fire, and about 60 conclusions have been issued.
As a result of the fire, three emergency service personnel and four pedestrians and motorists died, nine people were seriously or slightly injured, 26 citizens showed signs of mild carbon monoxide poisoning, 36 vehicles and three buildings were burned, and property damage of about 5.4 billion tugriks was caused to 228 citizens and 15 business entities.
The investigation is ongoing to fully determine the circumstances of the case.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2740028/
Court Sentences Journalist N.Ünürtsetseg to 4.9 Years in Prison
Published: Sat, 20 Jul 2024
The defendant N.Ünürtsetseg was found guilty of "disseminating false information to the public that damaged the reputation, honor, and business reputation of 4 named individuals and 1 legal entity", "disclosing personal legally protected secrets without permission using an electronic network after obtaining such information", "deliberately misrepresenting or concealing a large amount of taxable income for the purpose of tax evasion by an individual taxpayer or executive officer of a legal entity", "using assets, money, or income known to have been obtained through tax evasion", and "storing information and documents classified as state secrets". The court sentenced her to a total of 4 years and 9 months imprisonment, to be served in an open correctional facility.
As the case involving defendant N.Ünürtsetseg contained state secrets and sensitive personal information, the entire court hearing was closed to the public as stipulated by law.
The court hearing for the case against defendant N.Ünürtsetseg, for which the Ulaanbaatar City Prosecutor's Office had filed an indictment, was scheduled for 1:30 PM on July 18, 2024.
This court hearing was postponed at the request of the defendant's lawyer B.Baatarsaikhan, who cited a scheduling conflict with hearings at the Ulaanbaatar Criminal Court of Appeals and the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court.
While the hearing at the Ulaanbaatar Criminal Court of Appeals mentioned in lawyer B.Baatarsaikhan's request was postponed, the hearing for defendant N.Ünürtsetseg's case had already been postponed on July 1, 2024, with the next hearing scheduled for July 18, 2024. The hearing at the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court cited by the lawyer was scheduled after this hearing, and lawyer O.Batsukh failed to appear without providing any documentation or valid excuse to the court. Therefore, the court determined that the defendant N.Ünürtsetseg's lawyers were obstructing the proceedings.
As lawyer D.Orosoo was present at the court hearing, the court concluded that the defendant N.Ünürtsetseg's right to legal counsel and assistance was ensured, and thus rejected lawyer B.Baatarsaikhan's request to postpone the hearing.
Before the court hearing discussion began, defendant N.Ünürtsetseg submitted a request to the court stating that she was voluntarily dismissing lawyer D.Orosoo. As it is the defendant's legal right to dismiss her lawyer and represent herself, and this was not a case requiring mandatory legal representation, the court accepted her request and continued with the proceedings.
Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court
Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269879
Kh.Khongorzul: Korean doctors extracted teeth with dirty tools, causing major harm to citizens' health
Published: Sat, 20 Jul 2024
Kh.Khongorzul, a contracted dentist at the Health Center of Binder soum in Khentii aimag, has filed a complaint with the Ministry of Health and the Dental Advisory Board. The reason is that three Korean dentists from a hospital called Agape Christian United Hospital in South Korea came through church channels to provide services to local residents using equipment and tools that did not meet health requirements, endangering human health and safety.
When asked about this, she said: "I, Khongorzul with the surname Khureldorj, work as a contracted dentist at the Health Center of Binder soum in Khentii aimag. Three Korean dentists from a hospital called Agape Christian United Hospital in South Korea came to our soum's Health Center through church channels on July 18-19, 2024 to provide free dental services.
I entered my dental office on July 18, 2024 with the aim of learning from these doctors and assisting with examinations. But I saw one doctor washing his gloves with soap and examining multiple people with the same gloves. I also saw them wiping the saliva ejector with a tissue and using it on multiple people, so I provided 100 new ejectors from my own supply. Then, as I was watching the Korean doctor's examination, I saw that they were not following infection control and sterilization protocols at all - they were just wiping the dental chair, machine, drill bits and handpieces with tissues and using them on multiple people without proper sterilization. They also wiped the examination tools and used them on subsequent patients.
I was shocked to see them drilling decayed teeth and immediately filling them with dentin without any medication. They were making many professional mistakes. Then a student intern who was training with us said that the dentist in the second room was extracting teeth with unsterilized dirty tools. I went into the second room and saw that they had very little solution, and they were taking elevators out of a metal container with a large lid that had dirty tools in it, wiping them with a cloth and immediately using them on another person. I demanded that they stop the examinations. Then we had a meeting with the Korean doctors.
When I asked why they were working like this, they said their solution was called "Super J" and that's how they work in Korea. One said he was a dental professor. When I told Dr. Erdenebayar, who is temporarily serving as the head of the health center, about this issue, he said to sterilize the tools and continue the examinations. When I notified the Health Department of Khentii aimag, they said they would respond later and told Dr. Erdenebayar to proceed. Dr. Erdenebayar then scolded me, saying it was a minor issue and that I was hindering our cooperation work to go to Korea.
These Korean doctors who came are harming many rural people with poor health education. As a dentist, I was truly appalled and filed a complaint."
Translated from: https://eguur.mn/518343/
MEET: 33 Mongolian athletes to compete in the 33rd Summer Olympics
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
Nine days remain until the opening of the Olympic Games, a symbol of human unity, in Paris. More than ten thousand athletes from 205 countries on the blue planet will compete for 329 sets of medals in 32 sports. Mongolia will send 33 athletes in nine sports to the 33rd Summer Olympics, which costs nine billion euros.
At the Tokyo Olympics, Mongolians sent 33 athletes in ten sports.
Let's introduce the athletes heading to Paris.
Specifically,
- O. Yesugen /shooting/
- E. Davaakhuu /shooting/
- N. Bayaraa /shooting/
- B. Otgonbold /archery/
- O. Yesugen /boxing/
- B. Chinzorig /boxing/
- S. Jambaljamts /cycling/
- B. Tegshbayar /cycling/
- D. Otgonjargal /freestyle wrestling/
- E. Delgermaa /freestyle wrestling/
- T. Tulga /freestyle wrestling/
- B. Bat-Erdene /freestyle wrestling/
- M. Lkhagvagerel /freestyle wrestling/
- B. Khulan /freestyle wrestling/
- B. Khongorzul /freestyle wrestling/
- P. Orkhon /freestyle wrestling/
- E. Davaanasan /freestyle wrestling/
- G. Khishigsaikhan /marathon/
- B. Munkhzaya /marathon/
- B. Ser-Od /marathon/
- M. Ankhtsetseg /weightlifting/
- B. Baasankhuu /judo -48 kg/
- L. Sosorbaram /judo -52 kg/
- L. Enkhriilen /judo -57 kg/
- O. Khuslen /judo -78 kg/
- A. Adiyasuren /+78 kg/
- E. Ariunbold /-60 kg/
- Yo. Baskhuu /-66 kg/
- B. Erdenebayar /-73 kg/
- B. Gonchigsuren /-100 kg/
- O. Tsetsentsengel /+100 kg/
- B. Enkhtamir /swimming/
- B. Enkhkhuslen /swimming/
Notable athletes include B. Otgonbold in archery. Currently 27 years old, he won the Asian Games last year and earned his spot. He has previous experience competing in the Tokyo Olympics. B. Ser-Od can also be mentioned. As an Honored Athlete, he will compete in his sixth Olympics at the age of 42. In addition to them, siblings B. Enkhtamir and B. Enkhkhuslen will compete in the Olympics.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739830/
Olympic Village Begins Welcoming Athletes
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
The best athletes from around the world are gathering under the Paris Olympic sky.
32 athletes representing Mongolia are ready to compete in 9 sports, testing their speed, strength, and skill at the 33rd Summer Olympic Games, which will open on the 26th of this month.
The teams and athletes participating in the Olympic Games, a symbol of fair competition and unity that will keep sports fans and supporters entertained for 16 days, have started arriving at the Olympic Village.
From the Mongolian team, the boxing contingent will arrive at the Athletes' Village today, while on July 22nd, the largest group of athletes from judo, aquatics, athletics, cycling, and other sports will settle in the village.
Translated from: https://gogo.mn/r/elvkm
50,000 Buryats from 34 countries to participate in "Altargana" festival
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
The "Altargana-2024" grand festival, aimed at preserving and passing on the heritage, culture, traditions and customs of the Buryat people and uniting Buryats scattered around the world, will be held in Bulgan aimag on July 26-28.
The organizers estimate that over 50,000 Buryats from 34 countries will attend the festival.
This year's festival is jointly organized by the Office of the President of Mongolia, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, and the Governor's Office of Bulgan aimag. The main goal of this year's International Festival is to introduce and promote the Buryat language to young people and children, and to pass it on to future generations.
The Altargana festival was first started in 1994 in Dadal soum of Khentii aimag as a Buryat song competition, and has since grown into an international Buryat folk art and traditional custom celebration, now being held for the 15th time.
In the early years, it was a festival that promoted traditional songs, music, and dance on the scale of soums where Buryats live in Khentii and Dornod aimags, but over the years it has expanded and now Buryats living in every corner of the world participate.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739982/
Attendance at the Plenary Session of the State Great Hural of Mongolia
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
At the first plenary session of the ninth convocation of the State Great Hural of Mongolia, five members have each missed one attendance:
Khaltmaagiin Battulga, Nyamtaishiryn Nomtoibaiar, Saruulsaikhany Tsengüün, Davaakhüügiin Pürevdavaa, and Myagmarsürengiin Badamsüren.
Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269867
Will Deputy Ministers be Appointed by Parliament?!
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
L. Oyun-Erdene, the chairman of the Mongolian People's Party, announced that he would abolish the position of deputy ministers when he was appointed as Prime Minister and formed a coalition government. However, he also said that if there were to be deputy ministers, he would ask for public opinion. He emphasized this in his statement, saying, "We need to ensure the stability of the state administrative structure. We need to eliminate structures that cannot make decisions or spend budgets without authority. Neither the minister nor the state secretary allows the deputy minister to do anything. We will decide whether to have deputy ministers based on public opinion."
The position of deputy minister is just a piece of cake for the winning party, with little role in the Mongolian state.
The coalition government dismissed 13 deputy ministers from the previous government at its first meeting last Wednesday. The public also supports abolishing this position and saving the budget. However, it seems that after the Naadam festival, the "parties" of the coalition government are agreeing to have deputy ministers.
According to information circulating in political circles, the leaders of the parties have begun discussing behind the scenes about appointing deputy ministers from parliament and giving parliamentarians dual roles. If the position of deputy minister is allocated to members of parliament, the nature of parliament will be lost.
If the government is above parliament, oversight and accountability will be lost. The people didn't want this; they gave us a strong opposition to have a government with checks and balances.
In other words, if the government has ministers and deputy ministers with dual roles, there is a possibility of quarreling over power struggles in the ministries. The party leaders who supported having a government without oversight by making an unprecedented agreement in the history of the Mongolian parliament may fall into the hole they dug.
If a precedent is set for appointing deputy ministers from parliament in the name of making the government stable and strong, there's no point in having 126 members of parliament. It means having a government without oversight. This is because the coalition government has 22 ministers in addition to the Prime Minister. All of them are working as members of parliament with dual roles. If 16 deputy ministers of ministries are selected from parliament in addition to this, almost 40 members will become members of the government. In this case, there is no guarantee that the parliament will not be "held hostage" by its government. Also, every time there is movement in the government, the next in line who haven't become ministers will "queue up" from parliament. It's unpredictable how many members of parliament will strive for the position of deputy minister and cause harm during the four-year term.
The parliament is the highest legislative body, and the citizens have made their choice for it to fulfill this role diligently. So, why not respect the choice of your voters and completely eliminate the position of deputy minister as you've already done?
As a reminder, the following people were included in the 13 deputy ministers dismissed from the government meeting last Wednesday.
B. Uyanga, Deputy Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry, S. Zulpkhar, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection, and M. Gankhulug, Deputy Minister of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry, have become members of parliament.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2739852/
10 Lakes Suitable for Traveling in Mongolia
Published: Sun, 21 Jul 2024
During the summer season, people travel and enjoy the beautiful natural places of their homeland. People have become accustomed to refreshing their eyes with blue skies, vast plains, green grass, and majestic mountains, relieving their stress and fatigue for the whole year. Therefore, this time we are introducing 10 beautiful and suitable lakes for traveling in Mongolia.
Khyargas Lake is a mineral lake located in Uvs aimag, in the Great Lakes Depression. The lake was registered as a nature reserve in 2000 and covers a total area of 3,328 km². In addition to Khyargas Lake, Airag Lake is also included in this protection.
The water of Khyargas Lake is odorless, has a salty taste, and its color and turbidity change depending on weather, air, and seasonal characteristics. The lake's water clarity usually occurs in winter, while in summer and autumn, the turbidity increases and becomes yellow.
Ulaagchny Khar Lake, located in Erdenekhairhan soum of Zavkhan aimag, is a uniquely beautiful place surrounded by sand dunes on the north side and reeds on the south side. It is 110 km from the aimag center and 80 km north of Erdenekhairhan soum. The majestic Tovkhoshin mountains surround it.
Ulaagchny Khar Lake is 48 meters deep, 30 km long, and 5-10 km wide, with three Avgash islands in the middle, raised over 2500 meters above sea level, which serve as nests for migratory birds.
About 13 types of migratory birds visit this lake annually.
Sangiin Dalai Lake is a salt lake located behind the Bulnai mountain range. It is situated between Tsagaan-Uul, Shine-Ider, Burentogtokh soums of Khuvsgul aimag and Ikh-Uul soum of Zavkhan aimag.
The terrain of this area is generally mountainous, and the lake's water level is at an altitude of 1988 m, so although the surrounding mountains are high, they are relatively low in comparative height. The bottom of the lake is box-shaped, so its sides are steep with many capes. The mineralization of Sangiin Dalai Lake is less than that of Khyargas and Uvs lakes, but it is still salty. This lake belongs to the category of sodium and chloride water lakes.
Since Khoton and Khurgan lakes are located in the border strip of Mongolia, you need to obtain a Border Crossing Permit in advance from the Border Guard Command to travel from Ulaanbaatar or Olgii city. On the way from Olgii to Khoton Khurgan Lake, you can see the beautiful gorge of the Khovd River, the snow-capped Tsengel Khairkhan, ancient Turkic stone monuments, burial mounds, rock paintings, and get acquainted with the unique language and culture of Kazakh and Tuva, Uriankhai people.
There are two ways to get to Khoton Khurgan Lake from Olgii city, and you can stop by Tsengel soum to refuel.
Khar Zurkhny Khukh Lake is located 35 kilometers north of the eastern regional central road, not far from the Tsenkherin River, northwest of the center of Tsenkhermandal soum in Khentii aimag. Khukh Lake consists of two interconnected large and small lakes at an altitude of 1675 m above sea level in front of Khar Zurkh Mountain. Behind the lake is the Khar Zurkh Mountain, which has no trees on its front and a sharp peak on its back.
Khukh Lake is one of the most beautiful natural places surrounded by mountains, rich in various animals and vegetation. In 1189, the year of the female chicken, Temujin was enthroned as the Khan of all Mongols in this place. The names Khukh Lake, Khar Zurkh Mountain, and Sengur Stream appear in the Secret History of the Mongols.
Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake is a freshwater lake located near the Khorgo volcano in Tariat soum of Arkhangai aimag. It was formed when the flow of the North and South Terkh rivers, originating from the Khangai mountain range, was blocked by the hot lava of the Khorgo volcano.
Birds build their nests and lay eggs on a small island in the middle of the lake. Many black geese come to the lake and can dive up to 5 meters deep to feed on fish. It has fish from the Selenge basin, such as grayling. Rare birds also live there. The head of the lake is included in the Khorgo protected area.
More than 10 rivers flow into this lake, the largest of which is the Terkh River. However, only one river, the Suman River, flows out. That river flows for about 50 kilometers before joining the Chuluut River.
In 2011, CNN listed this lake as one of the best places to travel.
Achit Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Uvs aimag. The shore of the lake is a plain, with swampy areas to the northwest and northeast. The lake's mineralization is 0.180‰.
It is fed by several rivers and streams that originate from the snow and glaciers of the Siilkhem and Turgen ranges, major branches of the Mongolian Altai mountain range, including the Tsagaan Nuur River, Khatuugiin River, Bukh Murun River, and Uliastai River. Achit Lake gives its excess water to the Khovd River through a single river called Usan Khooloi. The water catchment area of Achit Lake is equal to 21 percent of the water catchment basin of the Khovd River.
Buun Tsagaan Lake is the largest salt lake in the Lakes Valley of Bayankhongor aimag. It is said that 99 rivers and streams join to form a river, but only one river, called Baidrag, flows out of Buun Tsagaan Lake. The lake is 11 km wide, 24 km long, with an average depth of 9.3 meters and a maximum depth of 16 meters.
This lake is called Buun Tsagaan Lake because it appears white when seen from afar.
Buun Tsagaan Lake is a rare lake in the world where 96 species of birds gather. It is one of the top ten largest lakes in Mongolia.
In 1639, a palace was built at a place called Tsagaan Lake or Shireet Lake in what is now Uvurkhangai aimag to enthrone Zanabazar as the religious leader.
There are eight lakes interconnected by underground channels in the majestic mountains of the western south part of the Khangai mountain range: Shireet, Khaliut, Bugat, Khayaa, Khuis, Shanaga, Duruu, and Bayan.
These lakes are called the Eight Lakes of Khuis.
These lakes of volcanic origin, with freshwater reserves, are natural monuments of perfect beauty. The two wooded peninsulas jutting into the beautiful Shireet Lake of the lovely Khangai are called islands by the locals.
Taatsyn Tsagaan Lake is a salty lake located at an altitude of 1234m above sea level in the valley behind Baga-Bogd Mountain, behind the meadow sands, in the Lakes Valley in Baruunbayan-Ulaan soum of Uvurkhangai aimag.
This lake, along with nearby Buun Tsagaan, Adgiin Tsagaan, and Orog lakes, was registered as a "Valley of Lakes" wetland in 1998. The valley of lakes is a breeding ground for endangered relict gulls where migratory birds gather.
Translated from: https://news.mn/r/2740008/
Supporting Mental Health of Adolescents
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The "Positive youth" program to support adolescent development during their summer vacation is continuing. Young developers of the "Positive dadal" and "HabiDo" applications have jointly initiated this program. Participants are currently being registered. Registration will continue until the 21st of this month, and those aged 16-19 are eligible to participate. Out of the registered participants, 100 will be selected and included in the program until the 10th of next month. The purpose of this event is to support the mental resilience, ability to overcome challenges, and mental health of adolescents.
Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269863
290 Redeveloped Apartment Units to be Commissioned in Q4 This Year
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The Mayor's Office of Ulaanbaatar and the Ulaanbaatar Housing Corporation are implementing a project to demolish and redevelop two public apartment buildings that no longer meet usage requirements in the 10th khoroo of Khan-Uul district, in order to provide safe and comfortable living conditions for citizens.
Specifically, about 400 residents of 96 households in buildings 34 and 35 of the khoroo have been living in conditions unfit for human habitation and at risk of collapse for the past 10 years, as determined by professional organizations. Therefore, last year these two buildings were demolished, the land was cleared, and construction of 580 apartment units in four fully-equipped blocks with playgrounds, exercise areas, and green spaces began, carried out by "Munkh Ariun Bulag" LLC. Incidentally, the first two blocks, or 290 apartment units, are planned to be commissioned in the fourth quarter of this year. The contractor company is working on completing the engineering infrastructure and starting exterior facade and interior finishing work.
Translated from: https://www.unuudur.mn/a/269851
Installation of clean water pipeline from Zuun Ail intersection to Selbe Bridge is 40% complete
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The installation of a clean water pipeline from Zuun Ail intersection to Selbe Bridge, which is 392 meters long with a diameter of 900 mm, is 40% complete.
Regarding this work, Ts. Turhuu, General Manager of Ulaanbaatar City, said, "Due to the expansion of Ulaanbaatar's construction and the increasing population, there is a shortage of water supply. In connection with this, we are installing a new 900 mm diameter pipeline at this location with funding from the Asian Development Bank. This project has been ongoing since 2019, and last winter we completed the canal work under the bridge. Now we are working on connecting the pipelines. We are also solving the infrastructure first in order to reduce smoke by converting the ger districts of Ulaanbaatar into apartments."
R. Dambadarjaa, Heat Supply and Ventilation Control Engineer of the Ulaanbaatar Investment Agency ONUAATUG, said, "In terms of clean water pipeline installation, we are directly burying it in the ground without making a tunnel system because it does not require annual maintenance. The pipeline has a 50-60 year warranty. There is an existing 700 mm diameter steel pipe for clean water at this location, and by installing an additional 900 mm diameter pipeline, it will be possible to fully meet the clean water consumption of Bayanzurkh, Chingeltei, and Sukhbaatar districts."
Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/371e
Expansion and Renovation of 2a Main Heating Pipeline from Drama Theater to Teacher's College Intersection
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The 2a main heating pipeline from the front of the Drama Theater to the Teacher's College intersection is being expanded and renovated.
The 950-meter long pipeline with a 350 mm diameter is being expanded to 530 mm diameter. The work on heating and clean water pipelines is ongoing.
During the summer season, hot water is restricted for one week to one month in certain locations to prepare for the winter by repairing the heating network.
Starting from July 16, the renovation of 15.6 km of main heating pipelines began at 18 locations in the capital city.
There are over 390 km of heating pipelines in Ulaanbaatar, most of which are 30-60 years old.
According to the Press and Public Relations Department of the Governor's Office of the Capital City, this year's major repairs of the heating network include expanding the size of the pipelines.
Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/371c
Ulaan Baatar City's Wormwood Will Be Cleaned Until July 22
Published: Fri, 19 Jul 2024
The first phase of the "Wormwood-Free Ulaanbaatar" campaign, aimed at preventing allergic diseases caused by plant pollen, will continue from July 1 to 21, 2024.
Landscaping and cleaning service organizations, green space maintenance and protection businesses, district governor's offices, and citizen groups are participating in cleaning up the wormwood.
To prevent the ground cover plants from releasing pollen, they are being cut 10-15 cm from the bottom stem using specialized scissors, manual and automatic mowers. Cutting multiple times causes branching and leaf growth of the wormwood, which has a beneficial effect on reducing air pollution.
The second phase of cleaning wormwood in the capital city will take place from August 5 to 26.
Translated from: https://ikon.mn/n/370x
Member discussion