Kazakhstan plans to
launch its first four-lane road tunnel spanning 840 meters and traversing the
mountain pass of Shakpak-baba this summer. Located at the junction of the
Zhambyl and Turkistan regions, the tunnel has concrete and asphalt works fully
completed, with lighting already in place. Also, the installation of gas
pipelines, video surveillance systems, and ventilation and fire equipment is
underway. Experts underscore the strategic significance of this project in
bolstering the country’s transit potential.
“This initiative will facilitate passage for
transit transport without entering residential areas. Also, the tunnel was
constructed due to the difficulty of accessing this section, especially in
winter. The project will be integrated into the main part of the Western
Europe-Western China International Transit Corridor contributing to the
country’s enhanced transit potential,” said Tolegen Abdullin, spokesperson for
the Kazakh Ministry of Transport.
