In Kazakhstan, construction on the new Moiynty—Kyzylzhar railway line — one of the country’s most significant infrastructure undertakings in recent years — is proceeding around the clock.
Spanning over 300 kilometres, this new mainline is set to become a pivotal component of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and will strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a key transit hub between Asia and Europe.
The project has now entered its active phase, employing over 1,700 specialists and deploying more than 670 units of equipment on site. Work is being carried out simultaneously across multiple sections, ranging from earthworks and track laying to the construction of bridges.
Strategic importance for Kazakhstan
The route will connect Moiynty and Kyzylzhar stations, traversing the Karaganda and Ulytau regions. This strategic infrastructure has the potential to transform regional logistics.
Upon completion, the new line will shorten freight haulage distances by 149 kilometres. For rail operators, this translates directly into reduced delivery times, fuel savings, faster rolling-stock turnaround, and enhanced competitiveness for transit through Kazakhstan.
Furthermore, the new branch line will alleviate congestion on one of the network’s most heavily utilised segments: the Moiynty—Zharyk corridor. This section currently handles a substantial volume of freight, including containerised trains operating on international routes.
In essence, Kazakhstan is establishing an additional transport artery intended to boost the throughput capacity of the entire railway network.
Focus on the Trans-Caspian Route
The project is intrinsically linked to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route — commonly referred to as the Middle Corridor — which has experienced surging demand in recent years against a backdrop of global logistical realignments.
For Kazakhstan, this presents an opportunity to consolidate its role as a transit bridge between China, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe. Amid rising freight volumes, the velocity and throughput capacity of transport infrastructure are becoming critically important.
Nations that invest in transport corridors today are expected to reap not only transit revenues in the coming years but also to secure new production facilities, logistics hubs, and investment flows.
Consequently, the Government of Kazakhstan has designated the construction of the Moiynty—Kyzylzhar line as a flagship initiative within its transport modernisation agenda.
Progress to date
To date, more than 90 percent of the primary earthworks have been completed. This phase proved to be one of the most complex, particularly given the climatic conditions and the route’s considerable length.
Approximately 40 per cent of track and sleeper installation has been completed. Concurrently, construction of artificial structures — including bridges, overpasses, culverts, and livestock crossings — is ongoing, with completion rates now surpassing 65 percent.
More than ten subcontractors are engaged in the project. Works are being executed on a 24-hour basis, reflecting the intensity of the schedule and the commitment to delivering the asset within the stipulated timeframe.
According to the project plan, commissioning of the railway line for permanent operation is scheduled for this year.
Projected economic impact
The new railway is expected to deliver benefits extending beyond transit operations. For the regions concerned, the project is set to create employment, stimulate infrastructure development, and spur additional economic activity.
For the business sector, the line promises faster and more predictable supply chains. For exporters, it offers new avenues to access international markets. For Kazakhstan as a whole, it cements the nation’s status as Central Asia’s premier logistics node.
