Bus fares in Astana may rise to 150 tenge from December 1

Tengrinews.kz — Authorities in Astana are proposing an increase in public transport fares. Starting December 1, the cashless payment rate may rise from 110 to 150 tenge reports, citing the Astana Akimat.

The city administration cited rising costs for carriers as the reason for the price hike. City officials consider the current fare insufficient to cover operating costs, fleet modernization, and the expansion of the route network.

The Akimat noted that in 2014, bus fare in the capital was 90 tenge. Over the past 12 years, the tariff has been revised only once, bringing the current cost of a trip to 110 tenge.

Meanwhile, according to the Akimat, carrier expenses have increased significantly during this period. For example, the price of diesel fuel rose from 107 to 329 tenge per liter—a more than threefold increase. Drivers' salaries, which averaged 100,000–150,000 tenge in 2014, can now reach up to 700,000 tenge depending on the bus class and work schedule.

Prices have also climbed for spare parts, tires, batteries, maintenance, repairs, and the purchase of new vehicles.

Current fare concessions are expected to remain in place. Pensioners, large families, people with disabilities, and other eligible categories can continue to use public transport in Astana for free. Additionally, since March 2020, free travel has been available for students under 18 residing in Astana.

According to Akimat calculations for 2026, the average cost of a single trip significantly exceeds the current rate. Therefore, it is proposed to set the cashless payment fare at 150 tenge starting December 1.