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Preparations for the construction of Almaty's Light Rail Transit (LRT) line have officially begun, with initial work starting on Tole Bi Street. Fencing has been erected along the thoroughfare, and banners showcasing the future transit vehicles have been installed, signaling the commencement of this major urban development project.

Visualizing the Future Transit

Banners displayed on the construction site fencing offer a glimpse of the envisioned LRT trains that will soon traverse the city. These visuals aim to give residents a preview of the modern public transport system Almaty is set to introduce.

Transforming the Urban Landscape

As work progresses, some pedestrian crossings have been temporarily closed. The fencing, while necessary for the construction zone, has initially created visibility challenges for both drivers and pedestrians, though some sections have since been removed.

A Long and Winding Road for Almaty's LRT

The Tole Bi Street LRT project has a history spanning several years and has seen multiple city administrations champion its development. The concept was first publicly discussed by Almaty Mayor Viktor Khrapunov back in 2003. Following the cessation of tram services in 2015, then-Mayor Bauyrzhan Baibek announced plans for a 'modern high-speed tram' and promised construction to begin in 2016. The project has since been under the purview of subsequent mayors, including Bakytzhan Sagintayev and Erbolat Dossaev, and is now being advanced by Darkhan Satybaldy.

Latest Updates on the LRT Project

The LRT was incorporated into Almaty's updated master plan, with the first line slated to run along Tole Bi Street to Abylai Khan Avenue, connecting to the Almaty-2 railway station. The depot is planned for the industrial zone along Momyshuly Street. In March 2026, the process of acquiring land parcels for construction was initiated.

The first phase of the LRT is expected to span approximately 18 kilometers and will feature 34 platforms. Notably, trains on the segment from Abylai Khan Avenue to Almaty-2 station will operate autonomously.

According to the latest information from city officials, construction for the first line is scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2027 and is anticipated to be completed by the second quarter of 2029.

Previously, it was reported that the metropolitan authorities had halted procurement for platform screen doors at 11 stations, a safety feature designed to enhance passenger security.