The Kazakh government ruled on August 27 that a referendum will be held on the construction of a nuclear power station amid protests against the idea. An exact date for the nationwide plebiscite has yet to be determined. In recent weeks, several activists known for their stance against the nuclear power station's construction have been prevented from attending public debates on the issue. Nuclear-power-related projects have been a controversial issue in Kazakhstan, where the environment was severely impacted by operations at the Soviet-era Semipalatinsk nuclear test site from 1949 to 1991 and the Baikonur spaceport, which is still being operated by Russia. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Kazakh Service, click here.
Amid Heated Debate, Kazakhstan To Hold Referendum On Nuclear Power Plant
The government in Astana has not yet set a date for the nationwide vote. (file photo)