The Karaganda region is ready to receive about 500,000 tourists by the end of the year. The region is actively investing in infrastructure, digital solutions and services, enhancing safety and comfort. The main focus is on the development of the Balkhash resort area and ecotourism in Karkaralinsk.

This was discussed at a staff meeting chaired by Akim of the region Ermaganbet Bulekpayev.

Reconstruction of the airport, the embankment and the beach continues in Balkhash. After the modernization, the airport's capacity will increase by more than 30%. New flights are expected to be launched and fully adapted for passengers with limited mobility.

The city is also addressing the issue of water supply. According to Sapar Satayev, akim of Balkhash, water pressure has been stabilized in the Barkovsky and Rembaza districts due to connection to a new highway. Construction of a water pipeline has begun in the Torangalyk and Shubartubek villages. The installation of local sewage treatment plants is being considered — the project is being implemented jointly with investors.

Additional bus, rail and air routes have been opened this season, including an increase in wagons on the Karaganda–Balkhash route.

This week, on June 20-21, the main event of the season, BalkhashTourFest, will take place. The program includes an information tour and a presentation of the first domestic online booking system for travel services, QAZ ELI.

Irina Lyubarskaya, Head of the Entrepreneurship Department, spoke about the introduction of digital solutions. There is a 24-hour AI-based chatbot on WhatsApp, QR codes with access to an online guide have appeared. The visitqaraganda.kz travel portal.kz is being updated with new information, and an online hotel booking system is being introduced.

Karkaralinsk also pays special attention to infrastructure and objects of historical and cultural heritage. The repair of the Karaganda–Karkaraly highway will be completed by the end of the year. Routes have been set up in the national park, and engineering networks have been connected to the Bugyly zone.

In July, the Qarqaraly Bugyly Fest – 2025 will be held here, where an internationally attended trail marathon will take place.

Ermaganbet Bulekpayev instructed akimats and KazAvtoZhol to ensure the construction of sanitary and hygienic hubs along highways and in places of mass recreation.

- Special attention is paid to security issues. It is necessary to ensure order and cleanliness in places of mass recreation. Where necessary, additional barbecues, barbecue areas, sanitary facilities and garbage containers should be installed," the head of the region noted. – We are not just developing tourism, we are creating an atmosphere in which people want to relax. This is a systematic work where everyone's personal responsibility is important.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/karaganda/press/news/details/1018137?lang=kk