Kazakhstan’s infrastructure projects, supported by the World Bank since 2009, are not just reshaping its physical landscape but also transforming socio-economic prospects across the country. The South-West and East-West Road Projects, spearheaded by the World Bank, have enhanced Kazakhstan’s transit capabilities, fostering regional integration and improving the lives of millions.
The development of the Western Europe–Western China corridor, spanning almost 2,000 kilometers, has connected approximately 5.5mn residents across regions like Almaty, Kyzylorda, Turkistan, and Zhambyl. This strategic infrastructure initiative has catalyzed economic growth by reducing travel times by 67%, from 25 km/h to 80 km/h, along with a substantial 35% decrease in road user costs.
A World Bank survey stressed the projects' profound impact, revealing that 43% of respondents reported better job and income opportunities, with 93% experiencing an improved quality of life post-project. Moreover, the initiatives have led to a 62% reduction in maternal deaths and spurred a significant decrease in regional disparities.
The road construction projects have not only created over 50,000 construction jobs but also established 1,200 permanent positions for road maintenance. This employment surge, coupled with training initiatives and equitable hiring practices, has curbed youth migration and bolstered social mobility, particularly benefiting women in the workforce.
Furthermore, improved road infrastructure has slashed travel times, facilitating easier access to markets and essential services. For instance, travel between Shymkent and Astana has decreased from 40 hours to 16 hours, stimulating economic activity and urban development along these corridors. Retail trade has surged by 50%, while wholesale trade has skyrocketed by 640% in the project areas.
Looking ahead, the World Bank says it remains committed to advancing Kazakhstan's transport sector, focusing on multimodal transport development and climate resilience. Collaborative efforts with partners like the Asian Development Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development have been instrumental in financing and implementing these transformative projects.
The World Bank's $3.2bn investment stresses its commitment to modernizing Kazakhstan's road infrastructure to international standards, promoting sustainable economic growth, and ensuring equitable development across regions.
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