Kazakhstan intends to build branch line on the west of Kazakhstan

11.12.00 00:00
/IRBIS, Dec.11, 00/ - Reuters informs that Kazakhstan intends to raise $140.0 mln for construction of Kustanai-Aktubinsk railroad branch line. This will allow to transport Kazakhstan freights to seaport on Caspian sea avoiding traditional transit route via Russia. Appealing to the deputies of Kazakhstan parliament, he claimed that the route would be important for exporters shipping the goods to Iran, Baku, Georgia and farther to Black Sea. The preliminary economic assessment has showed that $240 mln would be needed for the project. One of the potential source for investments is loan from Japanese government. However, the head of Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, Mr. Myrzakhmetov, added that latest government assessments stated $140 mln. The line will shorten route from central and northern regions of Kazakhstan to its western part. The construction could take three to four years and the project will repay costs during 7-8 years (pessimistic assessments).