Almaty plans to launch its light rail transit (LRT) line by the end of 2027, according to infohub.kz.
The city's akimat press service provided updates on preparatory work for the first LRT line. Currently, efforts are focused on Bauyrzhan Momyshuly and Tole Bi streets, where route preparation and relocation of utilities within the construction zone are underway.
The project involves relocating 375 utility lines, including heating, communications, water supply, sewage, storm drainage, gas, and electricity. On Baurzhan Momyshuly Street, 39 utilities are to be relocated, with work completed on 4. On Tole Bi Street, 269 utilities are planned, with 34 completed. On Abylai Khan Avenue, 67 utilities are to be relocated.
Additionally, old tram tracks have been dismantled, and soil excavation is underway within the two middle lanes. The key principle is to maintain traffic on the outer lanes. When utility work requires it, traffic is redirected to one lane of the opposite direction. Typically, restrictions on individual sections last no more than one or two days.
The akimat emphasized that utility relocation is a necessary step in preparing the LRT route. As sections are cleared, work will begin on track structures, sleepers, and rails. Construction will continue in winter, with measures such as soil protection, winter concreting, insulation, and concrete strength development at sub-zero temperatures.
The first phase of the LRT line starts from the depot in the industrial zone of Alatau district near Monke Bi and Baurzhan Momyshuly streets. The route runs along Baurzhan Momyshuly Street to Tole Bi Street, then east along Tole Bi to Abylai Khan Avenue, and along Abylai Khan to the Almaty-2 railway station. The terminal station will be the Raiymbek Batyr transport interchange hub.
The first phase will be entirely at-grade, with no elevated sections. Existing bridges will be reinforced. After the LRT opens, the two middle lanes on Baurzhan Momyshuly and Tole Bi streets will be exclusively for trains, separated by curbs. This will prioritize public transport, improve regularity and speed, and reduce accident risk.
The maximum technical speed of LRT trains will be 65–70 km/h. However, with an average stop spacing of about 700 meters, the average speed will be around 30–35 km/h. This will ensure comfortable, safe, and regular public transport on the dedicated line.
The planned launch is the end of 2027. The actual timeline may be adjusted based on the manufacturing and delivery of the required rolling stock.