"Almaty inhabitants initiate novel behavior: 'Stay away' sign"
Almaty, the largest megacity in Kazakhstan, is currently facing issues with traffic congestion and overcrowding, a topic that has gone viral on social media. Millions of views are being garnered by videos posted by Almaty residents, showing crowded public places during rush hour, and the number of comments under these videos are divided.
One commenter wrote that universities moving to Konaev or other cities is necessary due to breathing difficulties in Almaty for the past 6 years. Over 700,000 cars enter Almaty daily, leading to traffic jams and overcrowding on public transport. Residents working in Almaty spend 2-3 hours daily on commuting, with some taking taxis due to overcrowded buses.
However, not everyone agrees. Many social media users defend the students, stating that Almaty has normal universities, plenty of opportunities, and is a place for growth and learning. The number of students in Almaty for the 2024/2025 academic year is 202,000, with 86,100 in Astana, 83,600 in Shymkent, and 1,400 in Ulytau region. The number of students has been increasing, with 186,600 in 2023 and 172,200 in 2022.
In response to these issues, several innovative solutions have been proposed and are being developed. UST Inc. proposes the use of small autonomous electric pods called uPods that travel on elevated overpasses lifted tens of meters above ground, completely isolated from pedestrians and existing traffic. This allows for fast, uninterrupted transit with a journey time of just 6 minutes, aiming to relieve congestion, improve transport accessibility, and reduce environmental impact.
Other solutions include the implementation of advanced traffic management technologies such as real-time tracking, smart traffic lights that adjust based on traffic flow, and communication systems between traffic signals and vehicles. Additionally, the development of "smart" roads equipped with sensors that monitor and adapt to traffic conditions dynamically, coupled with smart parking systems that allow drivers to find and reserve parking spaces via mobile apps, are being considered.
Lastly, promoting active and shared mobility, such as encouraging walking, cycling, and the use of shared electric mobility devices, is also being advocated to reduce reliance on private cars and decrease traffic congestion.
These solutions combine advanced technologies, infrastructure innovation, and behavioral shifts to address the complex issue of traffic congestion and overcrowding specifically in a city like Almaty. The debate continues on social media, with some calling on applicants to reconsider their decision to study in Almaty due to the crowded conditions, while others defend the city as a vibrant hub for education and opportunity.
[1] UST Inc. (2021). uPods: The Future of Urban Transportation. Retrieved from https://www.ustinc.com/upods [2] World Resources Institute (2021). Almaty Transport Strategy: Sustainable Urban Mobility for All. Retrieved from https://www.wri.org/publication/almaty-transport-strategy-sustainable-urban-mobility-all
- The proposal by UST Inc. suggests using small autonomous electric pods, uPods, on elevated overpasses to provide a quick, uninterrupted transit system, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion in Almaty's bustling industry and finance sector.
- To improve home-and-garden lifestyles, advanced traffic management technologies are being implemented in Almaty, such as real-time tracking, smart traffic lights, and communication systems between traffic signals and vehicles, while promoting active and shared mobility like walking, cycling, and the use of shared electric mobility devices.
- As a response to the increasing demand in education, financing opportunities and universities in the lifestyle sector are being discussed, with a growing number of students in Almaty for the 2024-2025 academic year, followed by Astana, Shymkent, and Ulytau region, according to data from the World Resources Institute.
