Corrupt Practices Inciting Fury Among Law Enforcement at KazAvtozol
Rewritten Article:
In a fiery statement, Deputy Azat Sembinov of the Mazhilis slammed the recent increases in tolls for utilizing paid highways and labeled "KazAvtoZhol" as a "commercial behemoth."
According to Total.kz, Sembinov has voiced his concerns over the five-fold increase in tolls generating discontent among entrepreneurs and long-haul truckers in various regions. These protests, he pointed out, scrutinize the disparity between the significant toll hike and the condition of the roads, as well as questioning the transparency of KazAvtoZhol's operations and its misuse of its monopolistic position.
Sembinov reminded that back in 2013, the "Ak Zhol" faction fiercely opposed the creation of KazAvtoZhol, warning that it would become an unchecked money-grabber, feeding off state functions and the pockets of taxpayers.
He went on to express his disappointment that the warnings were disregarded, and KazAvtoZhol has since earned a reputation for being embroiled in corruption scandals.
Sembinov also mentioned that during discussions about the implementation of toll roads, the "Ak Zhol" faction advised the Ministry of Investments that toll roads are only introduced if there is a free alternative route. However, the people are left with no choices, even though the roads are funded by their own taxes.
"Today, KazAvtoZhol is once again causing outrage. Its proponents claim that the switch to toll roads is due to market economy demands. Yet, the market implies competition and the freedom of choice. Instead, KazAvtoZhol is more reminiscent of a mugger in a dark alley: 'your money or your life.’ Transport costs already account for 10-15% of product costs. A fivefold increase in tariffs will inevitably lead to higher costs for food and goods, placing an additional burden on the already struggling population. It's astonishing that while the government discourages businesses from hiking prices, it allows energy providers and KazAvtoZhol to continuously increase tariffs, leaving businesses with no alternative but to oblige, making the entire country economic hostages to monopolies," said Sembinov.
He concluded by stating that the "Ak Jol" faction stands in solidarity with the drivers and entrepreneurs, finding the current situation unacceptable. The faction demands that KazAvtoZhol abandons its plans to increase tariffs, expressing hope that the new leadership will make more reasonable and equitable decisions in the interest of society and small and medium-sized businesses.
Although information regarding Kazakhstan's toll road revenue expectations, economic and policy context, and India's NHAI's toll rate increase could be found, specific details about KazAvtoZhol's role or controversies were scarce in the available data. Further localized reporting is required to provide a more comprehensive understanding of this issue.
- deputy Azat Sembinov, in a recent statement, denounced KazAvtoZhol as a commercial behemoth, citing concerns over a five-fold increase in tolls that has fueled unrest among entrepreneurs and long-haul truckers.
- Sembinov pointed out that the disparity between the significant toll hike and the condition of the roads, as well as the transparency of KazAvtoZhol's operations, has come under scrutiny.
- In 2013, the "Ak Zhol" faction vehemently opposed the creation of KazAvtoZhol, warning that it would become an unchecked money-grabber, feeding off state functions and the pockets of taxpayers.
- Sembinov expressed dissatisfaction that his warnings were disregarded, and KazAvtoZhol has since been embroiled in corruption scandals.
- During discussions about toll roads, the "Ak Zhol" faction advised against implementing toll roads without a free alternative route, but the people are now left with no choices, even though the roads are funded by their own taxes.
