Rate of Progression
Astana, Kazakhstan's capital, is currently grappling with a number of challenges in its public transportation system. According to the Comprehensive Development Program for Astana's Transportation System until 2035, the city's bus fleet does not fully meet the capital's needs, and over 20 public transport routes cause traffic congestion. Moreover, the level of service does not fully meet the needs of citizens due to large intervals between routes, overcrowding, and insufficient accessibility to stops.
The program aims to address these issues by focusing on several key areas. One of the proposed solutions is the implementation of a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, which marks a significant development in Astana’s public transport network. The first LRT train cars, designed for smooth rides and acoustic comfort, have already been placed on tracks, with test runs scheduled to begin in September 2025. The LRT aims to provide a fast, reliable, and environmentally friendly alternative to existing transport modes.
Another aspect of the program is the modernization and expansion of transport infrastructure. This includes reducing congestion and improving connectivity within the city as well as with regional trade corridors. Leveraging Kazakhstan’s strategic location along important transcontinental routes, the program aims to integrate logistics improvements for better cargo and passenger flow.
The program also emphasizes the adoption of digital technologies and international standards in transport operations. This will help in managing growing demand and optimizing transport network performance. Strengthening partnerships and cooperation with foreign countries, such as Bulgaria, is another strategy to enhance transport corridors linking Astana to ports and other international hubs, contributing to broader economic and logistical benefits for Kazakhstan.
In addition to these initiatives, the program will also further develop the city's road network, improve public transport, and reduce environmental impact. The current infrastructure of bus pull-outs requires additional maneuvering, increasing passenger boarding and alighting times. Worn-out bus stops in Astana lack protective barriers, lighting, and have no unified design. The program aims to address these issues by upgrading the infrastructure and improving the overall passenger experience.
The capital's population is projected to increase by 60% to 2.28 million by 2035. To cater to this growing population, the program will be implemented in three phases, with Astana currently in the second phase. However, one of the main challenges is the shortage of drivers in Astana's public transport system. The program seeks to address this issue by attracting more drivers and improving working conditions.
In conclusion, the Astana transport development program seeks to overcome current limitations by introducing an advanced LRT system, upgrading infrastructure, embracing digital innovation, and fostering international cooperation in the transport sector. These measures aim to create a sustainable, efficient, and modern public transportation network by 2035, capable of serving the growing population and urban expansion of the city.
[1] https://www.khabar24.kz/ru/news/2023/05/03/v-astane-budut-proekty-novogo-tramvaya-i-mestnogo-avtobusa [2] https://www.khabar24.kz/ru/news/2023/04/19/v-astane-budut-proekty-novogo-tramvaya-i-mestnogo-avtobusa [4] https://www.khabar24.kz/ru/news/2023/04/19/v-astane-budut-proekty-novogo-tramvaya-i-mestnogo-avtobusa
The transport development program in Astana is not only focusing on the implementation of a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system to improve public transportation, but also aims to modernize and expand the city's infrastructure, particularly in road networks and bus stops.
Leveraging Kazakhstan's strategic location, the program also seeks to integrate logistics improvements for better cargo and passenger flow, participating in international cooperation with countries like Bulgaria to enhance transport corridors.
