Astana mayor announces test launch date for LRT trains

Tengrinews.kz – Astana mayor Zhenis Kassymbek has announced the test launch date for the city’s long-delayed light rail transit (LRT) project.

Speaking to journalists in the Majilis, Kassymbek said the first test run is expected next week, on September 29 or 30, between Abu Dhabi station and the Mangilik El bridge.

“In the beginning, trains will run between one or two stations, and the duration of service will gradually increase each day. Overall testing will take three to six months. In October, an additional eight trains will arrive, with all 18 sets to be delivered by December. By early next year, all trains will be running in test mode. The projected fare is 200 tenge,” Kassymbek said.

If the trials are successful, the LRT system will begin full operation in early 2026.

“We plan to put the entire system into operation by the end of the first quarter,” he added.

Earlier this year, city officials approved the official names of the LRT stations. The project, plagued by years of delays and controversy, has become one of the most discussed infrastructure ventures in Kazakhstan.