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Vasiliy KurdyukovHydrologist
Date of Birth: 01.01.1903
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Content:
- Early Life and Education
- First Arrival in Kazakhstan
- Discovery of the Karaganda Underground Water Basin
- Permanent Work in Karaganda
- World War II Efforts
- Post-War Accomplishments
Early Life and Education
Vasili Kurdyukov was born in 1903 in the village of Maslovo, Tver Governorate, Russia. After graduating from a nine-year school in Peterhof, he pursued his education at the Hydro-Engineering Department of the Petrograd Construction College, the Metallurgical and Chemical Faculties of the Petrograd Institute, and the Department of Hydrogeologist Engineers at the Leningrad Geological Exploration Institute.
First Arrival in Kazakhstan
In 1930, while still a student, Kurdyukov traveled to Kazakhstan for the first time. He worked as a Senior Drilling Supervisor and Senior Geohydrologist Technician.
Discovery of the Karaganda Underground Water Basin
From 1931 to 1932, Kurdyukov headed a reconnaissance hydrogeological expedition in the Karaganda geological base. His research uncovered a vast underground water reservoir spanning an area of over 1000 square kilometers. This geological discovery, which provided access to high-quality water, laid the foundation for the development of the Karaganda coal basin.
Permanent Work in Karaganda
After completing his thesis on "Water Supply for the Industrial Town of Karaganda" in 1932, Kurdyukov moved to Karaganda on a permanent basis. From 1932 to 1936, he led all hydrogeological explorations in the "Kargeolbase" and "Kargeolburo" organizations.
World War II Efforts
During the Great Patriotic War, Kurdyukov worked tirelessly to supply water to the "Kazakhstan Magnitka" (Temirtau) steel plant, earning him the medal "For Labor Valor." He also received the medal "For Valiant Labor during the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945" in 1945.
Post-War Accomplishments
Recognized for his invaluable contributions, Kurdyukov was awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labor in 1950 and received multiple "Pioneer of Deposits" badges for his discoveries. His work significantly improved the water supply for several major cities in Central Kazakhstan, including Almaty, Shymkent, Karaganda, Kostanay, Akmola, and the Donskoye chromite mines.






