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Astana's Light Rail Transit (LRT) system is facing discussions about a potential fare increase، with a proposed ticket price of 500 tenge sparking debate among residents. Currently، a single ride costs 200 tenge.

Our correspondent traveled from the "Teatr" station to "Astana Arena" to gather public opinion، interviewing over 20 passengers along the route. While some believe the new price is acceptable، others argue it is too steep، especially considering the system's recent opening.

Concerns Over Affordability

Many passengers voiced concerns that 500 tenge would be prohibitively expensive. "500 tenge will be too much. It just opened recently، they haven't even stabilized the prices yet، and now they want to raise them،" one resident stated.

Students، in particular، highlighted the financial strain such an increase would impose. "500 tenge is expensive for students. At that price، taking a taxi would be much more cost-effective،" some passengers commented.

Pensioners also expressed apprehension about the rising costs. "For someone on a pension، 500 tenge seems like a lot. It will be a burden on the budget،" a retiree shared.

Arguments for the New Fare

However، not all passengers opposed the potential fare adjustment. Some found the 500 tenge price point to be reasonable. "This price seems acceptable to me. There are no traffic jams، and you can get there quickly and comfortably،" one interviewee remarked.

Reasons Behind the Proposed Increase

The discussion around fare adjustments was intensified by economic analyst Olzhas Baidildinov's critique of the current flat 200 tenge fare. He argued that a fixed price for all routes is economically unjustified and unsustainable، as it fails to cover the project's operational expenses.

The transport company managing the LRT system، "CTS،" acknowledged that the current 200 tenge tariff does not fully cover their costs، lending support to the need for a fare review.