A QR code for payment has appeared on the popular tourist trail to the Kok-Zhaylau plateau, near the former 'Prosveshchenets' rest house. However, there are no improvements on the trail; moreover, cars have started driving onto the plateau. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The sign with the QR code appeared recently, coinciding with the start of construction of a cable car to the plateau. The press service of the Ile-Alatau National Park explained its appearance as a mandatory eco-fee.
'Payment via QR code is made only by those visitors who have not previously paid for visiting the national park at the checkpoint. No repeated payment is required. The fee for visiting the national park is charged in accordance with paragraph 1 of Appendix 11 to the order of the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated October 2, 2024, No. 232,' the press service noted.
The national park added that the sign was placed for the convenience of tourists: the eco-fee can be paid on the trail 'without the need to visit the checkpoint.' Notably, the press service refers to a 2024 order, but the QR code was installed only when the cable car construction began. Media reported the start of construction and installation work on the project last week. Kursiv LifeStyle asked the national park whether there is a connection between these facts but has not yet received a response.
Meanwhile, the payment is not controlled in any way, and there are no barriers near the QR code.
On social media, Kazakhstani citizens are questioning what the eco-fee is for on this particular trail: there has been no improvement, uncollected logs lie along the path, and in some places the trail has been washed out by mudflows, making it more dangerous to walk. The only thing on the trail is clean mountain air. Users assume that is what they are paying for.
'What are we paying for? For mountains of garbage? Which you sometimes even take with you? For coming on your own two feet? Maybe there's a toilet there?' one user noted.
Also in the discussion, tourists report that cars and motorcycles have started driving onto Kok-Zhaylau. Kursiv LifeStyle asked the national park press service whether this is legal and received a 'no' answer. So, likely, the license plates of such vehicles should be sent via eOtinish to the national park administration and the police.
Earlier, Kursiv LifeStyle reported that new tourist routes are being equipped in the mountains of Almaty.