Almaty Introduces Low Emission Zone (LEZ)

Efforts are underway in Almaty to reduce air pollution, with a focus on regulating vehicle emissions and implementing a Low Emission Zone (LEZ). This was announced by Arshat Bakhtygereev, Deputy Head of the Department of Ecology and Environmental Protection of Almaty, during a briefing at the Regional Communications Service.

According to Arshat Bakhtygereev, air quality in Almaty is affected by a complex set of factors, including vehicle emissions, residential areas, energy facilities, small and medium enterprises such as bathhouses, auto repair shops, and eateries that use solid and liquid fuels, as well as industrial sites.

On December 30, 2025, the city council approved air quality protection regulations addressing the main sources of pollution and mandating emission reductions, including those from vehicles.

Since the start of this year, mobile environmental laboratories have tested over 2,500 vehicles, with more than 714 identified as exceeding established standards. More than 116,000 measurements have been conducted at 19 stationary environmental posts, recording over 13,000 instances of exceeded pollution levels.

Bakhtygereev particularly highlighted the introduction of the LEZ, a pilot project launched on April 28, 2026. The zone operates within the boundaries of Bogenbay Batyr Street, Abay Avenue, Zheltoksan Street, and Dostyk Avenue.

Until the end of 2026, the LEZ will be in a test phase with no entry fees, fines, or movement restrictions for drivers. Currently, efforts are focused on refining technical solutions, data exchange, and system participant interaction. In the pilot area, 134 road signs have been placed, and road markings have been applied to 15 streets.

"The key principle of the LEZ is the actual emission level of a vehicle. Therefore, an essential component is the technical inspection of vehicles, measuring exhaust gas toxicity for gasoline and gas-powered vehicles and smoke opacity for diesel vehicles," says Arshat Bakhtygereev.

The LEZ aims to be a tool for reducing transport emissions. Meanwhile, the city will continue vehicle inspections, work with bus fleets, monitor other pollution sources, and enforce air quality protection regulations.

Reported by ЖКХ24 with reference to the Almaty City Akimat website.

Photo: gov.kz