Sixteen years after its construction, the Astana – Shchuchinsk highway remains one of the best in the country. It is Kazakhstan's first international-class motorway, built using comprehensive scientific and technical control measures. This is what ensures its high quality and durability.

The project was launched in 2006 and was met with considerable skepticism, with doubts about the deadlines, technologies, and feasibility. Nevertheless, by 2009, 224 kilometers of new road connected the capital with the popular resort of Burabai. The road included a concrete pavement, which was a technological innovation at the time. Today, more than 4 million cars pass along the highway every year, and it is still in good condition.

Among the key factors for success, the construction participants mention a multi-stage control system. In addition to contract laboratories and regional services, the Kazakhstan Road Research Institute (KazdorNII) was responsible for scientific support. Its specialists conducted hundreds of laboratory tests, developed mix compositions, monitored the introduction of new technologies and advised engineers at all phases.

The concrete part of the highway was built with the participation of the German company GP Günter Papenburg AG, which introduced advanced paving machines and joint cutting technology. However, it was not only the equipment that was key, but also strict discipline in adhering to the technology, including under the supervision of Kazakh scientists.

The current condition of the highway confirms the effectiveness of this approach. This project was a kind of test for the industry, which was successfully passed. Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also noted that the road “still serves the people well.”

The example of theAstana – Shchuchinsk highway clearly shows the importance of scientific and technical support in the implementation of infrastructure projects. And perhaps it is precisely such approaches that should become the norm in road construction throughout the country.