KTZ Plans Free WhatsApp and Telegram Access on Kazakhstan Trains

At a Kazakh government meeting on October 6, 2026, Elzhas Otynshiyev, Chairman of the Board of JSC NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), announced plans to offer passengers free access to messaging apps. KTZ, in partnership with Transtelecom, is currently finalizing the terms of the internet service. The free access will cover text messaging on WhatsApp, Telegram, and Aitu, as well as receiving essential travel updates.

Currently, over 1,500 carriages across 108 trains operating on 51 routes in Kazakhstan are equipped with Starlink satellite internet. The head of KTZ noted that more than 11 million passengers will be able to use this service annually. Moving forward, the company plans to leverage this newly established infrastructure to roll out additional digital services.

Concurrently, efforts are underway to improve connectivity across other transport and tourism hubs in the country. According to Jaslan Madiyev, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development, internet connectivity is currently being deployed on seven aircraft and across 50 key tourist destinations.

What this means for the market

• For tour operators: When designing rail itineraries across Kazakhstan, please note that free messaging access will be limited to text only. Heavy files, such as PDF vouchers, hotel photos, or maps, should be sent to clients in advance of their journey.
• For guides and transfer companies: Real-time coordination with tourists arriving on KTZ trains can be managed via text messages on WhatsApp and Telegram during their journey, without waiting for them to arrive at the station.