May 21, 2026
There
are currently no plans to extend the metro from Almaty to Alatau. Instead,
authorities are considering the development of an LRT line and other
alternative options for inter-city transportation. This was stated by Deputy
Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev, according to Tengri Travel.
During
a government briefing, journalists noted that the possibility of extending one
of the Almaty metro lines to the city of Alatau had previously been discussed
and asked whether this idea remained on the table.
According
to Bozumbayev, it is still too early to discuss metro construction.
"Alatau’s
population is currently just over 50,000 people, officially. There is no point
in building a metro there yet," he said.
Other
options
As
the Deputy Prime Minister explained, another form of public transportation is
currently being considered as part of the master plan.
According
to him, the development of an LRT is planned between Almaty, Alatau, and
Qonaev. At the same time, the authorities are also exploring other options.
“We
are currently considering options such as an LRT, a hovertrain, and so on. We
are working with international experts. We will seek the most optimal, most
cost-effective, and yet efficient solution,” noted Bozumbayev.
Authorities
do not anticipate a transportation collapse
When
asked about the risks of traffic congestion due to the growth of the new city,
he stated that there are no such concerns.
According
to him, the master plan for Alatau City was developed with the participation of
the international company Surbana Jurong. Additionally, another international
team specializing in urban planning and transportation planning is now being
brought on board for the project.
Read
more: https://tengrinews.kz/my-country/neskolko-gorodov-v-kazahstane-hotyat-svyazat-lrt-599768/