Individuals discovered under the stairs of Light Rail Transit (LRT), identified as Vyas.

Individuals discovered under the stairs of Light Rail Transit (LRT), identified as Vyas.

A casual guide to Astana's greening efforts: Elms on the LRT line and more

Astana's putting some thought into its urban development, blending natural charm with city life. Here's a lowdown on the greening of the LRT Line using elms and other initiatives that breathe fresh air into the capital.

Let's talk about the elms, shall we? The Center asserts that the chosen elm variety is perfect for Astana's conditions, growing up to 10-12 meters tall while overpass structures soar at around 18-20 meters. Meanwhile, the elm's controllable crown will be shaped to avoid clashing with the overpasses. Elms, the agency explains, are a resilient choice, standing their ground in dusty, vibrant urban environments with limited root space.

Now, let's delve into Astana's bigger picture, inspiring a sustainability movement in urban settings. Astana's Botanic Garden is a prime example, offering a 89-hectare green haven in a bustling residential district. It boasts public spaces for interaction, along with eco-friendly facilities like a high-tech greenhouse imported from a climatron. Collaborative projects, such as revamping irrigation systems and enhancing park areas, create an inclusive and eco-friendly cityscape.

Astana is also rolling up its sleeves to collaborate with international organizations like the European Investment Bank, striving for energy efficiency and carbon neutrality. The city's smart city initiatives are another driving force, bridging digital transformation and economic growth.

Back to the elms on the LRT Line: it's part of a broader goal to create shaded, clean, and picturesque urban expanses to complement public transport infrastructure. Elms, with their fast growth, shade provision, and air purifying qualities, fit right in.

So, as the city plants around 7,500 trees along Syzganak Street and Kabandy Batyr Avenue, expect a greener, more comfortable urban environment—with modern public spaces for leisure under the overpasses—unfolding along the LRT route. Happy urban greenery, Astana-style!

[1] Astana Botanic Garden: A green heart for Astana’s urban renewal[2] Astana’s green infrastructure[3] Sustainable urban development in Astana[4] Smart city initiatives in Astana[5] Astana’s commitment to decarbonization and renewable energy

1. The elms planted along Syzganak Street and Kabandy Batyr Avenue, part of Astana's greening efforts, are a perfect pick for the city's conditions, given their ability to thrive in dusty and vibrant urban environments.
2. In a bid to inspire sustainability in urban settings, Astana has developed environmental-science programs that cater to various aspects, such as enhancing city parks and revamping irrigation systems, which promote a more inclusive and eco-friendly cityscape.
3. Astana's green initiatives extend beyond the LRT Line and its landscaping, incorporating the development of home-and-garden spaces that reflect the importance of sustainability and lifestyle choices within modern city life, such as the implementation of eco-friendly facilities in the Botanic Garden. Gardening enthusiasts can benefit from these initiatives, fostering a greener and healthier urban environment.

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