KTZ accelerates Darbaza-Maktaral railway line launch to October
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Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ) announced plans to open the Darbaza-Maktaral railway line in October 2026, a month ahead of schedule. Acting Chairman Bauyrzhan Urynbasarov ordered accelerated construction after inspecting the project, with 57 km of track already laid.
Construction Progress
As of the inspection, 57 km of main and station tracks have been laid. Over 1,200 specialists, mostly from Turkestan region, and more than 800 pieces of equipment are deployed on site. Urynbasarov ordered daily track laying to increase to 1,500 meters and round-the-clock delivery of materials.
Border Station Focus
Special attention is given to the border station Maktaral, including facilities for border, customs, and other state control agencies. KTZ also instructed local employment centers to accelerate training and hiring of local specialists from Maktaral, Saryagash, and Zhetysay districts. The line is expected to create about 400 permanent jobs.
Strategic Impact
The new line will provide direct rail connectivity for Maktaral and Zhetysay districts to the main KTZ network. It is projected to reduce load on the Saryagash border station by approximately 40% and boost the efficiency of the North-South international transport corridor, according to the company.
What's Next
KTZ aims to begin trial train operations by October 2026. It remains unclear whether the accelerated timeline can be met given the need for round-the-clock work and completion of bridges and culverts.
2 sources
KTZ accelerates Darbaza-Maktaral railway line launch to October
