Secrecy Veils Kazakhstan Railway Track Seizure: Private Company Fights Back

Mangystau Region Railway Dispute: Secrecy Surrounds Government Seizure of Private Tracks Mangystau, Kazakhstan – A significant legal battle is unfolding in Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region, involving the Ministry of Transport and the private company, Kascor-Transservice. The Ministry initiated the forced seizure of railway tracks operated by Kascor-Transservice for over three decades, claiming the need to return them to state ownership. However, the company contests this, arguing it holds legal rights to the tracks. The dispute highlights a larger conflict between private enterprise and state control in Kazakhstan’s transport sector. Kascor-Transservice, established in 1992, inherited its infrastructure from the Soviet-era Prikaspiysky Mining and Metallurgical Combine. The company has consistently operated the railway lines, ensuring freight transport in the region. "The Ministry of Transport’s actions are a blatant disregard for our legal rights and the principles of fair business practice," stated a representative of Kascor-Transservice, who requested anonymity due to the ongoing legal proceedings. Adding to the controversy, the upcoming court hearing is scheduled to be closed to the public and press. No official explanation has been given for this decision, raising concerns about transparency and potential attempts to conceal information. The lack of transparency raises questions about whether the dispute involves state secrets or if the government is trying to hide details of a potentially damaging conflict. The Ministry of Transport has yet to provide a public statement directly addressing Kascor-Transservice's claims or the reasons for the closed hearing. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for the future of private investment in Kazakhstan’s transport infrastructure.