More than 270 thousand seats will be offered on trains next summer in the direction of Lake Alakol

01-03-2024

Issues of organizing summer transportation in the direction of the popular resort area of Lake Alakol were discussed at a meeting in KTZ. It was attended by representatives of the Atameken NPP, industry associations, tourist operators and owners of tourist centers.

In recent years, demand for train travel towards the lake has been growing. In 2023, 254 thousand passengers were transported by rail to Alakol. This figure has doubled compared to 2020. This coming summer, the number of seats offered on trains will increase by 16 thousand and amount to more than 270 thousand.

To ensure transportation, KTZ makes maximum use of its rolling stock fleet. Especially for the convenience of passengers, 11 routes from Astana, Almaty, East Kazakhstan and Abay regions will run in the direction of Lake Alakol. Trains sent to the resort area will primarily include rolling stock with air conditioning.

Train stops are provided in the most popular locations for tourists - Zhalanashkol, Akshi, Beskol stations. Passenger traffic at the height of the tourist season at the Zhalanashkol station is about 800 passengers per day, Akshi - about 550 passengers per day, Beskol - about 220 passengers per day. Taking into account the increase in passenger traffic, conditions are created at the station stations for a comfortable and safe stay for passengers.

Over the past three years, the passenger platform at Zhalanashkol station has been lengthened 6 times - up to 650 m. Paving stones were laid, the station building was repaired, 24 canopies with lighting were installed, flights of stairs with railings and a ramp were installed. Additionally, benches and trash cans have been installed. The number of lighting points on the station area of Akshi station has been increased. At the Beskol station, the station building was renovated, the number of public address speakers, benches, and trash bins was increased. The stations are adapted for passengers with special needs: there are wheelchairs, a ramp, and special seats in the waiting room.

At the meeting, business representatives noted that a close constructive dialogue has been established between KTZ, NPP and tour operators, which allows for prompt resolution of issues that arise. In their opinion, in recent years the service on KTZ trains has improved and the competence of conductors has increased.

Answering questions from business representatives, KTZ noted that they are ready to consider organizing one-time trains from Pavlodar, Shymkent and Kyzylorda to Lake Alakol if tour operators provide a clear need. For tour operators, the procedure for early reservation of tickets for commercial trains will continue to apply - from 180 days before the train's departure. You can purchase tickets during peak periods using the “Waiting List” service.

KTZ is also ready to cooperate with air carriers and tour operators on the development of intermodal transportation, when a trip is made using several modes of transport.
 

Press service of JSC «NC«Kazakhstan Temir Zholy»