Astana Tests New Work Hours to Reduce Peak-Hour Jams

Since mid-September, a number of government institutions in Astana have switched to a new work schedule. Although traffic jams have not disappeared entirely, the city administration reported that a pilot project has reduced congestion on some routes in the mornings and shortened the average travel time, according to Tengrinews.

According to the city mayor, the changes have been particularly noticeable on major roads leading to bridges. The administration noted that traffic has eased on Kabanbai Batyr Avenue, Turan Avenue, the area of Kunaev and Sarayshyk streets, and Respublika Avenue.

The city transport department stated that the new schedule allowed traffic flow to be redistributed during peak hours. As a result, morning congestion has decreased on certain sections of the left bank, and the road network has started operating more smoothly.

Most employees who switched to the new schedule reported that morning traffic is noticeably lighter, and they can finish their workday earlier, positively impacting their personal time.

The city administration continues to monitor the effectiveness of the pilot project. If positive results are maintained, the practice of staggered work schedules may be expanded to other organizations.