Kazakhstan's Utility Costs Soar, Outpacing Incomes

Rising Utility Costs in Astana Spark Public Outcry Astana, Kazakhstan – Residents of Astana are expressing growing frustration over sharply rising utility costs. The increases, impacting electricity, heating, and other services, are occurring at a rate exceeding income growth, according to recent interviews. One Astana resident stated, "Prices have gone up on utility bills; even comparing May 2024 to May 2025, it's a 10,000 tenge increase for us, even though the number of residents hasn't changed." This sentiment reflects widespread concern amongst the population, particularly for those on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. The video also shows an elderly man expressing his concern about the rising cost of basic necessities, while also highlighting the difficulty of securing affordable housing in the city. The situation underscores the need for policy adjustments to address the affordability crisis and ensure a sustainable standard of living for all citizens.