The reconstruction of the Balykchy–Cholpon-Ata–Korumdu motorway is scheduled to be completed next year

The Committee on Transport, Communications, Architecture and Construction of the Jogorku Kenesh, during a field visit to the Issyk-Kul region, familiarised itself with the progress of road construction.

The deputies familiarised themselves with the progress of road construction in Cholpon-Ata as part of the reconstruction of the Balykchy-Cholpon-Ata-Korumdu motorway. Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications Almaz Turgunbaev presented information on road construction works.

The reconstruction of 30 kilometres of the 81-kilometre road has been completed, and the motorway is scheduled to be fully completed next year. The deputies noted that a cycle path is not included in the road expansion project in Cholpon-Ata, emphasising the importance of developing cycle path infrastructure for tourists. The deputy minister replied that the construction of a bicycle path is not included in the project.

In addition, the committee members inspected the progress of construction of the Korumdu-Balbay Baatyr road section as part of the reconstruction of the Issyk-Kul ring road. The repair of the 79.3-kilometre road is being carried out with $118.4 million in funding from international organisations. The deputies noted the inappropriateness of using Road Fund funds for this project. At the same time, they called for special attention to be paid to the quality of the asphalt laying work.

The deputies then visited Karakol International Airport. The airport operates two flights a week on the Bishkek-Karakol route and one flight a week on the Osh-Karakol route. Preparatory work is underway to receive international flights.

As noted by airport director Sabyrbek Narbayev, all conditions are in place to serve 250 passengers per hour. Work is underway to extend the runway from 2,450 metres to 3,750 metres and install lighting for night-time aircraft arrivals.

Committee Chairman Muradil Sydykov emphasised the importance of modernising Karakol International Airport for improving the tourism industry in Issyk-Kul and the socio-economic development of the country. Deputies drew attention to the airport's potential and the conditions for organising international flights.