Astana LRT Finally Opens After Years Of Delays

Astana’s LRT has finally reached its symbolic launch point. Tokayev visited the unified dispatch center, which will monitor and regulate public transport in the capital, including the light rail system, Orda.kz reports

According to Astana akim Zhenis Kassymbek, a separate dispatch service has been created for the LRT. In total, 21 specialists will monitor and regulate public transport in the capital.

Each LRT train can carry more than 600 passengers. Fifteen driverless trains will run on the 22.4-kilometer line, with four more kept in reserve.

The system is designed to work automatically. Train control, acceleration, braking, door opening and emergency response processes are automated, although manual control and communication with dispatchers remain available.

The line includes 18 stations and a modern depot. The full route will take about 40 minutes, with trains running at an average speed of 50–60 km/h. The interval between trains will be five to six minutes.

Tokayev called the launch important for Astana and Kazakhstan, saying the capital should eventually become a transport hub of Eurasia.

The president received a transport card with serial number 001 and traveled as the first passenger from the airport station, Áuejai, to the Ulttyq Muzej station.

Officials are already considering the second phase of the LRT. It could include new lines toward the Astana-1 railway station, the Zhagalau residential area and the city of Kosshy. The planned extension is 26.5 kilometers long and would include 20 stations.

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