Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov held a meeting on the implementation of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's instructions to reduce the load on the Almaty–Kaskelen highway. Construction work on the facility will begin on Monday, July 20. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.

The head of state drew attention to numerous and regular complaints from residents of Almaty and suburban villages about multi-kilometer traffic jams. In this regard, the head of the cabinet demanded that work begin without delay.

"By the end of this week, the contractor must mobilize equipment and personnel. On Monday, July 20, start construction work. The instruction of the Head of State must be carried out efficiently and in the shortest possible time," Bektenov said.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the cost of the road project is fixed and not subject to increase. To eliminate any corruption risks and speculation with plots subject to compulsory acquisition for state needs, the cost of purchased land was strictly fixed as of July 14, 2026.

Minister of Transport Nurlan Sauranbayev presented a detailed reconstruction plan:

  • 01Double expansion of the highway (increasing road width)
  • 02Construction of additional lanes
  • 03Modernization of roadside infrastructure
  • 04Creation of bypasses and interchanges to reduce congestion

Additionally, the meeting discussed improving transport connectivity on the Almaty–Esik and Almaty–Talgar routes, as well as plans to accelerate the development of suburban rail transport and expand the Almaty metro lines.

The total cost of the project and information about the contractor have not yet been disclosed. However, the Prime Minister stated that strict control over the quality and timing of the work will be established.

The Almaty–Kaskelen highway is one of the busiest routes in the city. Every day, tens of thousands of people use this road for commuting to work and school. The expansion is expected to significantly reduce traffic jams and improve road safety.

During construction, temporary closures or traffic restrictions are possible. A detailed schedule and information about detours will be announced later.