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The debate surrounding the safety of right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles on Kazakhstan's roads has resurfaced, with automotive experts calling for stricter regulations and potential bans.

Anar Makasheva, President of the Kazakhstan Automobile Union, stated that these vehicles should not be permitted for use within the country. She highlighted that importing such cars has been prohibited since 2007.

Safety Concerns with Overtaking

The primary reason behind this prohibition is safety. With the driver seated on the right side, RHD vehicles face significant challenges when overtaking oncoming traffic. This configuration increases the risk of head-on collisions, contributing to a higher incidence of road accidents.

End of Service Life for Older RHD Vehicles

Makasheva pointed out that vehicles imported in 2007 should now be nearing the end of their operational lifespan. "It is now 2026. These vehicles are approximately 20 years old. If right-hand drive vehicles of this age are allowed to be used as taxis, it is clear they will not meet technical regulations and safety standards. Therefore, I do not recommend using such vehicles as taxis," she explained.

Broader Call for Removal

Auto expert Artur Miskian echoed these concerns, emphasizing that while all vehicles pose risks, RHD cars exacerbate these dangers. "Restricting the use of right-hand drive vehicles in public transport is correct. However, in general, the issue of phasing out right-hand drive vehicles in our country needs to be resolved," Miskian commented.

Earlier this year, in early March, First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar announced that over 70,000 right-hand drive vehicles had been barred from connecting to online taxi platforms. These measures are part of an ongoing effort to enhance road safety across the nation.

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