Experts suggested a solution to the traffic jam problem in Astana

Tengrinews.kz – During an expanded government meeting, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ordered urgent action to address traffic congestion in the capital. A Tengrinews.kz correspondent consulted experts on the main causes of traffic jams in Astana and possible solutions.

According to Asset Akhmetov, co-founder of Sergek Group, the growing number of vehicles exceeding road capacity is a key factor in traffic congestion. National Bureau of Statistics data shows 425,730 registered vehicles in the capital.

Akhmetov also cited a lack of key road infrastructure, such as bridges and interchanges, as well as poor traffic management (inefficient traffic lights, inaccurate road markings) as contributing factors.

Infrastructure issues were echoed by Alexey Alekseyev, editor-in-chief of Za Rulem Kazakhstan, who noted that Astana lacks wide streets and major highways running through the city.

"Astana was built from scratch, and traffic issues should have been anticipated, considering the city's growth. The city needed wider streets and multi-lane roads, like Moscow, where central highways have six lanes in each direction. Implementing 'green wave' systems would also ensure smooth traffic flow," Alekseyev said.

He added that roads will never be sufficient, and the number of drivers must be reduced, though there are few viable methods to achieve this.

Features of the capital

Asset Akhmetov emphasized that, in addition to the city's large population, Astana frequently hosts various national and international events.

"There are many key destinations where people prefer to drive their own cars. Additionally, there is a significant influx of novice drivers and out-of-town vehicles. All of this together has a major impact on traffic," Akhmetov noted.

Global approaches to traffic management

According to Akhmetov, there are three main models for developing transport infrastructure worldwide.

United States

The American model is heavily car-centric, featuring wide roads, extensive highways, and vast parking lots. For example, in Detroit, one-third of the city's land is occupied by roads, another third by parking lots, and only the remaining portion by buildings. As a result, such cities become inconvenient for pedestrians.

"This approach does not always eliminate traffic congestion since a high number of cars still leads to road overload," Akhmetov explained.

Europe

The European model strikes a balance between personal and public transport. It combines historic districts with narrow streets and modern areas with interchanges and efficient metro systems. Many Europeans opt for buses and trains as they are faster, more comfortable, and cost-effective. Even car owners often choose public transport for daily commutes, reserving their vehicles for out-of-town trips and special errands.

"Overall, Europe has successfully developed its transport infrastructure," Akhmetov concluded.

Speaking of Europe, it's worth noting that in October 2023, there was a proposal in Astana to restrict certain categories of vehicles from entering the city, similar to London's approach. While London's restrictions are primarily aimed at improving environmental conditions, they have also significantly reduced traffic congestion in the city center.

In 2018, London banned petrol and diesel vehicles from entering the city center (marked in red on the map).

A congestion charge (marked in yellow on the map) applies to drivers of diesel vehicles below the Euro-6 standard (typically manufactured before 2015) and petrol vehicles below the Euro-3 standard (typically manufactured before 2007).

Singapore

Singapore strictly controls the number of cars on its roads. Authorities have calculated the maximum number of vehicles the island can accommodate and issue vehicle ownership licenses accordingly. These licenses cost three times the price of a car, discouraging excessive vehicle ownership. This approach helps prevent road congestion and keeps traffic under control.

How to reduce traffic jams in Astana?

Alexey Alekseev suggests that there are only two ways to address the issue: developing public transport and introducing congestion charges, including paid entry into the city center and expensive parking.

"But the priority should be comfortable public transport. Buses must follow a strict schedule. Drivers should be careful and follow the rules. Buses should be cool in summer and warm in winter. The frequency should be high enough to avoid overcrowding. And most importantly, they should have dedicated lanes.

The only way to get drivers out of their cars is to offer a better alternative. If they see that taking the bus is faster and more convenient, they will switch to public transport," Alekseev explained.

Aset Akhmetov shares the same view, emphasizing that in all successful traffic solutions worldwide, public transport plays a central role.

"The European model places accessible, high-quality, and reliable public transport at the core of the transport system. This means that during rush hours, every passenger should be able to board a bus or metro without hassle and reach their destination—work, school, or home—without delays," said the expert.

Aset Akhmetov added that improving transport infrastructure, enhancing traffic management methods, and integrating modern digital solutions should also remain a priority.

Congestion charges

Akhmetov also explored the idea of introducing a congestion charge for entering the city, a common measure used in major metropolitan areas to combat traffic jams.

"For example, trucks, construction vehicles, and large equipment are only allowed into the city center outside peak hours. If they enter during rush hours, they have to pay a fee. This helps distribute traffic more evenly between peak and off-peak hours," explained the co-founder of Sergek Group.

Paid parking is ineffective

According to Alexey Alekseev, experience from Almaty shows that paid parking does not effectively solve congestion issues or free up spaces near popular establishments and business centers.

"This is because parking fees are too low. If parking were more expensive, there would be more availability. But before implementing this, we need to focus on developing infrastructure first," noted the editor-in-chief of Za Rulem Kazakhstan.

However, Aset Akhmetov believes that in the long run, paid parking could encourage citizens to switch to public transport. He emphasized that this measure will only be effective once public transport becomes more efficient and reliable.

Alternative transport is not for Astana

Akhmetov pointed out that in Almaty, e-scooters and bicycles help reduce congestion in the summer. However, Astana’s colder climate makes micromobility ineffective in winter.

"It’s a great supplement but not the main solution. The key to solving the problem is still traditional public transport that operates in all weather conditions—buses, trolleybuses, trams, metro, and LRT," he said.

On the other hand, Alekseev argued that the more transport options a city provides, the better it is for its residents. Bike lanes encourage alternative modes of transportation, which is always beneficial.

"Astana was built from scratch. Honestly, I expected the capital to be designed according to modern urban planning standards—not as a city for cars, but for people. A city that encourages walking, micromobility, pedestrian zones, and safer road infrastructure. But it seems that didn’t happen," Alekseev concluded.