Tengrinews.kz - The first two trains for Astana’s long-anticipated light rail transit (LRT) system have been shipped from Tangshan, China, according to a statement from CTS (City Transportation Systems).
A total of 19 trains will be manufactured for the LRT project. Each is a modern, four-car, fully automated driverless train with Level 4 automation, capable of carrying up to 650 passengers.
Photo: CTS press service
The trains are being produced by CRRC Tangshan, one of China’s oldest and largest rail manufacturers, founded in 1881.
The first two trains are expected to arrive in Astana in June 2025. The remaining 17 will be delivered by the end of the year. Trial operations of the LRT line are scheduled to begin in September.
According to CTS, most of the construction work on the Astana LRT project has been completed. Current work includes track laying, station façade installation, painting of viaduct columns and beams, connecting utility networks, landscaping under the viaduct, and construction of the depot.
Earlier, Astana’s akim (governor), Zhenis Kassymbek, responded to a question about the possible cost of a single LRT ride.