Kazakhstan Builds 500-Metre Railway Bridge Across Syr Darya

Kazakhstan has begun building a 500-metre railway bridge over the Syr Darya River. The structure is part of the new Darbaza–Maktaaral railway line, stretching 152 km. The project was launched on the orders of the President and carries strategic importance for both the country and the region.

Alternative to Saryagash–Tashkent route

The new railway will reduce pressure on the overloaded Saryagash–Tashkent corridor. It will provide a direct connection between Maktaaral and Zhetysai districts and the national rail network — without passing through Uzbekistan. This will increase export capacity and speed up logistics across southern Kazakhstan.

Half of earthworks already complete

More than 6 million cubic metres of earthworks have already been completed — 50% of the total volume. Work is ongoing on engineering structures. The project includes 35 bridges and 135 culverts. At the Arys station, 105 km of track components are ready for installation.

Over 600 specialists and 300 units of machinery are involved in the project.

Completion expected in 2026

The railway is set to be fully operational by 2026. Once completed, it will strengthen transport independence for Kazakhstan’s southern regions and enhance regional connectivity.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Azerbaijan plans to file international lawsuits against Russia over the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) aircraft in Kazakhstan’s Aktau in December 2024.