During a government meeting on March 5, 2024, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov addressed the issue of targeted urban development. He instructed regional akims to prioritize city beautification and greenery, highlighting their significance for residents' quality of life, leisure, and tourism. Bektenov noted various urban inconveniences like lack of sidewalks, lighting, greenery, and inadequate bus stops.
The Prime Minister criticized the lack of systematic efforts by local authorities in urban beautification, leading to neglected trees and public spaces. He stressed the need for well-maintained parks and squares, free from unauthorized construction. Bektenov praised public engagement in decision-making, citing a successful initiative where a square replaced a planned 18-story building in Astana.
Bektenov urged continued efforts in creating comfortable leisure areas and comprehensive greening systems in cities to revitalize residential areas. He emphasized the need for urban development in line with master plans and public consultations, opposing haphazard construction and deforestation. The Prime Minister called for cities to be attractive and functional for residents, advocating for a "city without outskirts" approach.
He instructed regional akims to ensure thorough execution of urban development plans and prompt issue resolution, prioritizing community feedback. Bektenov demanded protection of cities' green spaces, promoting tree survival rates and transparent procurement practices for landscaping services. He tasked relevant ministries with monitoring project implementation quality and proposing accountability measures for officials involved in urban development.
In a related context, Almaty's Mayor Erbolat Dosayev addressed concerns about targeted urban development during a meeting with Nauryzbay district residents on February 29, 2024. The government's focus on sustainable urban planning and green spaces reflects a commitment to enhancing citizens' living standards and preserving Kazakhstan's natural beauty.
