Almaty Starts Testing a Low-Emission Zone in the City Center

Almaty has launched its first low-emission zone. For now, there will be no fines or restrictions — the cameras are only collecting traffic and air-quality data, Orda.kz reports.

The pilot has been in operation since April 28 within the square bordered by Bogenbai Batyr, Abai, Zheltoksan and Dostyk streets. Cameras, radars and air sensors have been installed there. They record traffic flows and at the same time measure air quality.

Entry remains free. There is no charge and no fines. Outwardly, the area looks no different from an ordinary road section. The difference is that data is being collected and analyzed on how many cars pass through, what types of vehicles they are, and how traffic affects the air.

At this stage, there are still no restrictions. The authorities are checking whether the cameras can recognize vehicles in real conditions, how accurately the sensors measure air quality, and how quickly all the data is processed.

In effect, this is a trial run ahead of possible future measures. If the system proves effective, the data could later be used to introduce restrictions on older or more polluting vehicles.

The pilot will continue until the end of 2026.

Original author: Natalya Ovchinnikova

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