Astana Mayor's Response to Tragic Accident: Public Transport Reforms on the Horizon?

Astana Mayor Addresses Tragic Accident, Hints at Public Transport Reforms Astana, Kazakhstan – A tragic accident involving an eight-year-old girl who lost her legs has prompted a response from Astana Mayor Zhenis Kasymbek. The accident, which occurred on June 9th, 2025, has sparked public outrage and calls for improved safety measures in the city's public transportation system. In a short interview, Mayor Kasymbek acknowledged the severity of the incident and stated that an investigation is underway to determine the cause and assign responsibility. "We must wait for the investigation to conclude to determine the cause and responsibility," he said. While he refrained from specifying immediate changes, he hinted at potential adjustments to public transport operations, including increased stop frequency or restrictions on bus speeds. The mayor also addressed concerns about the speed of the bus involved, stating that, to his knowledge, the bus was new and operated within speed limits. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continuous improvements in public safety and transportation infrastructure. The mayor's comments suggest a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that contributed to this tragedy and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.