Almaty continues implementing its updated Master Plan alongside strengthened architectural and urban planning oversight. Deputy Akim Beibut Shakhanov said key decisions are reviewed by the Urban Planning Council and architectural inspection authorities.
“The Council is a collegial advisory body reviewing major projects for the city. It includes independent architects and experts who ensure public oversight, while government agencies have no voting rights,” Shakhanov noted.
From 2022 to 2025, the Council held 26 meetings and reviewed 395 projects, approving 47.8%. Priority areas include façade solutions, modern construction technologies, population density, and alignment with the city’s architectural character.
Architectural and construction oversight has also intensified: over 1,300 unscheduled inspections were conducted this year, 350 million tenge in fines issued, and more than 600 orders for corrections delivered. A key focus is the quality of construction and accountability of all stakeholders.
“...Revoking licenses is one of the most effective tools for removing bad-faith companies from the market. This year, five construction companies lost their licenses, and two supervision firms lost accreditation,” Shakhanov said.
Courts remain active as well: about 80 claims have been filed, half already upheld. Forty-two relate to full or partial demolitions; since the start of the year, 38 illegal structures have been demolished, with another 70 pending. Shakhanov stressed that the goal is a transparent system ensuring compliance from design to commissioning.
Source: Almaty city akimat