In a step towards improving transport connectivity in the region, the longest bridge in Kazakhstan was officially opened on the Bukhtarma reservoir. The ceremony took place on October 22, 2024, with Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov representing the Head of State, who issued the directive for the project.
The new two-lane automobile bridge stretches 1,316 meters and is designed to handle up to 80,000 vehicles per day, addressing a long-standing issue of transport access for residents of six districts: Kurchum, Ulken Naryn, Markakol, Katon-Karagay, Tarbagatai, and Zaysan. Transport Minister Marat Karabayev reported that the project included the construction of 18 kilometers of new road leading to the bridge, all executed using advanced engineering technologies in compliance with quality standards.
During a meeting with local residents, Prime Minister Bektenov highlighted the bridge’s role in facilitating safe year-round vehicle movement and its anticipated positive impact on the socio-economic development of East Kazakhstan.
“For 50 years, citizens of the region have been relying on ferries in summer and traversing icy surfaces in winter. The construction of this bridge has been eagerly awaited,” he noted.
The East Kazakhstan region serves as a strategic hub, containing vital transport corridors that enhance logistics and provide uninterrupted connections to neighboring countries. Residents expressed optimism about the bridge’s potential to boost transport links, accelerate goods movement, increase access to services, and unlock tourism opportunities.
Bakytkhan Olmesekov, an honorary citizen of Kurchum district, remarked on the project’s local significance, recalling how residents had previously appealed to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for this infrastructure.
“Funds were allocated, and all the work was done by local specialists—no foreign labor was needed. It created jobs and was completed in all weather conditions,” he stated.
Larisa Grechushnikova, Chairperson of the Altai District Maslikhat, reflected on the bridge’s historical importance.
“This project has transformed travel times dramatically. What once took hours can now be covered in minutes. We are grateful to all the builders, engineers, and designers who made this possible.”
Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting domestic specialists and contractors in major infrastructure projects.
“The Head of State is focused on regional development and creating mega-projects that generate jobs and enhance infrastructure connectivity. We possess the necessary skills and capabilities to undertake such projects independently,” he affirmed.
