SCO and digital technologies in Kazakhstan
In Kazakhstan, the digital economy takes centre stage, with a driverless light rail system in the capital Astana moving residents using big data and the Internet of Things — a concrete example of how Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) cooperation is embedding smart technologies into everyday life.
When technology ceases to be abstract and begins to work on city streets, it becomes more than an engineering achievement — it becomes a symbol of a new era. The driverless light rail in Astana is not just about passenger convenience; it is a vivid embodiment of how SCO cooperation is turning the digital economy from a political slogan into a reality where big data and the Internet of Things manage traffic, and people enjoy comfort and safety. Kazakhstan, by hosting this project, is demonstrating that the future has already arrived — it moves on rails controlled by algorithms.
The project is being implemented in the 25th anniversary year of the SCO, when member states are stepping up cooperation in cross border flows of capital, technology and talent, rapidly building their efficient, sustainable and highly innovative digital economies. "Technological development is sweeping the world. Digital solutions are being applied in a wide range of fields, from the automotive industry to culture and education. The digital economy has become a reality," said Anar Tuleubayeva, Deputy Chair of the Qaz.Al association.
The first phase of the Astana light rail project, 22.4 kilometres long, is Central Asia's first fully automated driverless urban light rail line. With vibration damping wheels and improved sound insulation, passengers barely hear or feel the train's movement. "Everything is wonderful and very clean. The seats are comfortable. I hope it stays that way. The ride is very smooth, really comfortable. It will be great to take the light rail to work and back," said Galiya Khassenkhanova, a resident of Astana.
The line has 18 stations, serving the city's business districts, residential areas, the airport and the main railway station. Monitoring and operations management are supported by big data and the Internet of Things. "There are controllers on the platforms at every station. In case of an emergency, cameras are installed to record what is happening," said dispatcher Medet Altynbek. Train driver Marat Malikov described the training process: "We first spent six months in Astana studying theory. Then we went for practical training in Tianjin, China. After that, we had another three months of practical training in driving electric trains here in Astana."
Cooperation among SCO countries has allowed capital, technology and talent to move across borders, benefiting city residents and improving urban life. "This demonstrates Kazakhstan's development and the progress of our technologies. The light rail will ease traffic congestion. The system is so interesting. It's fantastic. Go Kazakhstan!" said Rustem, a resident of Astana.
The digital economy is not dry statistics or government documents, but a new economic model improving every aspect of daily life, experts say. "Our joint projects within the SCO have brought progress in areas such as smart healthcare and cross border e commerce," said Tuleubayeva. SCO Secretary General Nurlan Yermekbayev said the bloc has identified new priorities for future development across a wide range of key areas. "These include security, new forms of cooperation and the digital economy."
As CCTV+ reports, the launch of driverless light rail in Astana is not just a transport project but a vivid example of successful cooperation within the SCO. It shows that the digital economy can make cities more convenient and people's lives more comfortable. In the coming years, similar projects will appear in other member states, strengthening their technological sovereignty and improving the quality of life for millions of people.
