US-headquartered consultant CH2M has been deployed by the US Embassy to help Kazakhstan stem the flow of illegal drugs across its borders.
The Central Asian country sits on the main northern trafficking route for Afghan heroin and opiates making their way to Russia and Eastern Europe.
Under an umbrella contract known as the Air Force Contract Augmentation Program (AFCAP), CH2M was tasked via the US Embassy to design passport check buildings, guard accommodation and dog kennels.
It said drug trafficking was "a significant threat to the stabilization of both the Republic of Kazakhstan and the surrounding region".
As well as stiffening drug detection, the new facilities will create "a better immigration experience for those seeking immigration to Kazakhstan", said Frank Smith, an Aecom director of military work.
CH2M has been involved with AFCAP contracts for over 10 years, working on over 50 projects ranging from environmental planning to infrastructure development to remediation.
Image via CH2M/Jonas Satkauskas
