Irtysh River - The Largest River in Kazakhstan and a Vital Resource for the Region

Irtysh (Kazakh: Ертіс, Ertis) is a river in Kazakhstan and Russia. It is the largest river in Kazakhstan and the second-longest river in Central Asia, after the Syr Darya. The river is approximately 2,150 km (1,340 miles) long and flows through the Pavlodar and Akmola regions of Kazakhstan before entering Russia and flowing through the Omsk and Novosibirsk regions.

The Irtysh River is formed by the confluence of the Ishim and Tobol rivers in the western part of Kazakhstan. It flows generally northwestward through a flat, dry steppe region, receiving several major tributaries, including the Ural River, before emptying into the Ob River in western Siberia. The river is an important source of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power, and its basin is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including fish, birds, and mammals.

The name "Irtysh" is derived from the Kazakh word "ertis," which means "wild goose." The river has played an important role in the history and culture of the region, with many ancient settlements and artifacts found along its banks. Today, the Irtysh River remains an important resource for the people of Kazakhstan and Russia, supporting a variety of economic activities, including agriculture, fishing, and energy production.