Kazakhstan has commenced
construction of a new railway to China. The official launch of the project was
given by Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov via a teleconference. The
‘Bakhty – Ayagoz’ line in the Abai region is set to enhance Kazakhstan’s
transport and transit potential, increasing the throughput capacity between the
two countries from 28 to 48 million tonnes. This initiative aims to boost the
volume of Kazakhstan’s exports, relieve southern checkpoints, and attract
additional transit traffic. The double-track railway, spanning 272 kilometers,
is planned to be operational by 2027. It is worth noting that the project is
being implemented in accordance with the instructions of President Kassym-Jomart
Tokayev.
“The railway construction is one
of the tools for enhancing the country’s economic potential. In recent years,
there has been a significant growth in the volumes of container and transit
transportation, accompanied by the expansion of transit corridors. Today, we
are commencing the construction of one of the largest projects, the
Bakhty-Ayagoz railway line. This project will redirect a part of cargo
transportation to the new railway line and the international border crossing
point Bakhty-Chuguchak,” said Smailov.
“The construction of the railway
from Ayagoz to Bakhty is essential for the economy. This is the third crossing
between China and Kazakhstan, facilitating transit from Kazakhstan to Europe,
Russia, and other countries. Spanning 11 separate points along its route, the
railway will naturally contribute to the development of the surrounding areas.
Villages along the route are expected to experience growth, as the railway is
anticipated to attract both population influx and investments. The border areas
will also witness new economic development. The construction of this railway is
poised to bring about substantial advantages,” railway industry veteran
Alexander Stepura said.
It is worth noting that several
infrastructure projects are currently underway in the railway industry. Thus,
in November 2022, construction began on the second tracks for the
Dostyk-Moiynty section. Additionally, this year, work began on a new railway bypassing
Almaty and the Darbaza-Maktaaral railway line. A total of more than 1,300
kilometers of railways will be built in Kazakhstan over the next three years.
