During a press conference at the Central Communications Service, the akim was asked about the future fare for public transport in the capital.
Zhenis Kasymbek stated that the LRT has been actively under construction for the past year, and nearly all construction work on the overpass has been completed.
"The entire LRT infrastructure will be ready by summer. Currently, the rails are being laid, and in spring, work on signaling will commence. The first trains are expected to arrive by August-September of next year. We plan for 15 trains to arrive in the fall. Technical movement will be opened at the end of next year, with full operational launch at the beginning of 2026," the akim responded.
The head of Astana mentioned that initially, when the project was planned, a flow of about 20,000 passengers per day was expected. However, the akimat is now anticipating a significantly larger passenger flow.
"The fare will be recalculated. I can't provide a specific fare right now, but I can say that this is public transport, and we strive to keep the cost of public transport services within affordable limits for all segments of the population. Therefore, the price will be reasonable and acceptable," the akim concluded.
It was previously reported that City Transportation Systems LLP plans to launch the LRT by the end of 2025. Unmanned trains will operate on the light rail line. A total of 18 stations will be built, and 19 rolling stock units will be purchased, operating at intervals of 4-5 minutes. At the initial stage, authorities expect a passenger flow of 25,000 people per day, with peak hours reaching 92,000 people per day. Fares can be paid using a transport card or via QR code.