LRT in Astana promised to launch this spring: what’s going on now
Context
On 29 September 2026, test operations of the LRT began in Astana. The first train ran between stations No. 112 and 113 at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour.
At that time it was reported that the tests would last six months, with the speed and distance gradually increasing.
As of today, the sixth month since the start of testing is already underway. As Astana akim Jenis Qasymbek recently stated, the light rail in the capital may start operating as early as this spring.
“Completion of the test operation and the date for the start of passenger services will be determined based on the results of the full set of activities and confirmation that the system meets the established technical requirements. The launch of LRT operations is expected in the coming months (in spring),” the akim of Astana wrote.
Qasymbek added that the LRT trains will run in driverless (unmanned) mode.
LRT to be launched in 2026: what the tests have shown
At present, the LRT continues to operate in test mode.
“The start of operation of the LRT line and the launch of passenger services are planned for 2026. All work is being carried out in accordance with the approved schedule. The line parameters have not changed. The length is 22.4 kilometers, with 18 stations,” the press service of City Transportation Systems (CTS) reported.
CTS also provided information on the readiness of the project’s infrastructure.
According to the company, the main construction and engineering works have already been completed.
“Rails have been laid in full, the supports, viaducts and station facades have been installed, and work on power supply and relocation of utility networks has been completed. At present, interior finishing works, cable laying and equipment installation are underway,” the company said.
According to LRT data, trains will run at a speed of 40–50 kilometers per hour. The journey from Nurly Zhol station to the Airport station will take about 40 minutes.
“The projected headway between trains currently ranges from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the section of the LRT line. The estimated travel time between stations is from 1.5 to 3 minutes,” the company’s press service added.
How much will a ride on the LRT cost?
Earlier, Astana akim Zhenis Kassymbek stated that the fare for a single trip on the LRT could range from 100 to 200 tenge.
Meanwhile, the CTS press service notes that “the question of the fare on the LRT line remains open for now.” The exact fare and payment methods will be determined later.
“The fare level and payment methods will be approved after the facility is put into operation. At the same time, fares are set by the local executive body in accordance with the Law ‘On Transport’,” CTS explained.
The decision on how the LRT will be launched—gradually, section by section, or along the entire line at once—will also depend on the final results of system testing.
At the same time, CTS stressed that no postponement of the LRT launch dates is planned.
“No postponement is envisaged. Construction works are being carried out in accordance with the approved schedule,” the press service added.