Fare Evasion on the Rise: Number of Non-Paying Passengers Increases Significantly in Kazakhstan

The number of individuals opting for free rides on public transport in the country has reached a record high. During the first four months of this year, more than 15.7 thousand instances of fare evasion were detected. This represents a sharp 76 percent increase compared to the same period last year, marking a record high not witnessed in recent years.

Those who avoid paying fares are predominantly concentrated in major megacities. According to statistics, 77 percent of all registered violations nationwide occurred in just two cities: Astana and Shymkent. Remarkably, every second "fare evader" caught across the country (49 percent) was identified on buses in the capital city, Astana.

According to experts, this statistical growth is not due to a sudden decline in public discipline, but rather points to intensified inspection mechanisms:

Bus fleet conductors and inspectors do not possess the legal authority to fine passengers on their own.

This process is carried out exclusively with the participation of police officers. Consequently, statistics are higher in regions where law enforcement is more actively engaged.

Another driving factor is the development of electronic payment systems. While only 2,800 violations were registered between 2015 and 2017, the number increased more than tenfold following the widespread advancement of digital payment infrastructure.

Due to fare evaders, Astana buses previously suffered a financial loss of nearly 5 billion tenge. In response to these deficits, inspection and enforcement measures are set to become even stricter.

According to Article 622 of the Code of Administrative Offences, financial penalties are enforced for violating rules on public transport:

Traveling on a bus without a ticket incurs a fine of 2 MCI (Monthly Calculation Index).

Other infractions, such as riding on the steps of the bus, entering or exiting while the vehicle is in motion, or transporting dangerous or staining items, are punishable by a fine of 1 MCI.