On March 4 at 4:30 p.m., following an inspection of the tunnels to ensure traffic safety prompted by an earthquake earlier in the day, Almaty Metro resumed operations, QazMonitor reports citing the press service of the subway.
What happened: The subway specialists surveyed the tunnels and confirmed the absence of any structural damage. Within three hours of receiving clearance from the Department of Emergency Situations, subway services resumed.
Background: On March 4 at 11:22 a.m., Almaty was struck by a magnitude 5 earthquake, with its epicenter located 31 km south of the city. Almaty City Department of Emergency Situations was put on high alert; residents and guests of the city were advised to seek refuge at nearby emergency reception centers after the tremors ceased. Currently, authorities have received 156 reports of damage to social facilities and residential buildings, with one reported injury.