The automated light metro system in Kazakhstan’s capital city Astana was officially opened on 16 May 2026. During the inauguration ceremony in Astana, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev took part in the inaugural journey as the first passenger. After years of delays, the capital finally gained its first rail-based rapid transit system.
In reality, the system is not a conventional underground railway, but rather a “light” version defined as a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system. The first phase comprises 22.4 kilometres of route with 18 stations, linking the international airport with key administrative, residential and business districts.
Technically, the system is based on driverless trains equipped with automated CBTC control technology. The trains operate in fully automated GoA4 mode without drivers and are supervised centrally. Processes such as acceleration, braking and door operation are carried out entirely automatically. CRRC Tangshan delivered 19 four-car trainsets to Astana, designed for a maximum speed of approximately 80 km/h.
Additional technical features include:
- 750 V DC power supply
- 1,520 mm gauge
- Viaduct alignments and elevated stations
- Platform screen doors and digital passenger information systems
The elevated design was chosen to reduce construction costs and better withstand Astana’s extreme climatic conditions. Temperatures below −35 °C place considerable demands on rolling stock, points and power supply infrastructure.
For a long period, the project suffered from construction delays — completion had originally been planned in time for Expo 2017. Despite financial difficulties, the system was eventually completed with international support. The opening of the Astana LRT marks an important step for public transport in Central Asia and is regarded as the region’s first fully automated urban rail system.
Further expansion of the network has also been announced. The second line is intended to connect Astana 1 railway station, the Zhagalau residential area and the city of Kosshy on a north–south axis. The planned line will have a total length of 26.5 km and include 20 stations.
see also: https://www.urbanrail.net/as/kz/astana/astana.htm
