It has taken around two decades as well as a series of efforts to battle through corruption and cost overrun controversies, but Kazakh capital Astana finally boasts a light rail transit (LRT) system.

May 17 saw the launch of what is Central Asia’s first fully automated driverless urban rail network.

At times talked of as a “monument to corruption” and also beset by fires that caused construction delays, the light metro project has finally unveiled an elevated line that stretches 22.4 kilometres (13.9 miles) and includes 18 stations linking key locations including Astana International Airport, the city centre and Nurly Zhol railway station.

The system operates using Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4) technology, allowing trains to function without drivers. Train movement, station stops, door operations and depot management are all handled automatically.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the inauguration ceremony and enthused: “The capital should eventually develop into a transportation hub of Eurasia.”

Project difficulties have included disputes over financing from Chinese lenders and several high-profile corruption cases involving former officials. Investigations into alleged embezzlement linked to the LRT initiative resulted in prison sentences and international arrest warrants. In 2019, Tokayev publicly questioned whether the project could become financially viable, reflecting broader criticism over its rising costs and uncertain economic prospects. Despite the controversy, city authorities continued with construction as Astana’s population growth and expanding urban area placed increasing pressure on the transport network.

The project was implemented with the participation of China Construction Sixth Engineering Bureau as part of a cooperation between Kazakhstan and China under the Belt and Road Initiative. 

Tokayev thanked the Chinese side for its role in delivering the system. The Astana LRT is the first rail project in Central Asia built entirely using Chinese technologies and equipment. Chinese companies were involved in the design, construction, operational setup and staff training.

Abat Shynynbekov, vice chairman of the board of LLP City Transportation Systems, said the system represented the most technologically advanced light rail network in the region, according to Bastille Post Global.

“The Chinese side made improvements to the station's interior design, making it very aesthetically pleasing. The quality of the exterior materials of the trains has also been enhanced,” he was quoted as saying.

“It can be said that Astana's light rail is currently the most advanced light rail system in Central Asia,” he added.

Authorities said trains will run every five to six minutes at speeds of 50-60 kilometres per hour, with a full journey across the route taking approximately 40 minutes.

Officials expect the project to reduce road congestion, improve urban mobility and modernise public transport infrastructure in the rapidly growing capital.

The system also aims to improve access to major tourist attractions, including Bayterek Tower, Astana Opera, Hazrat Sultan Mosque and Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre.