In general, the volume of transport between China and Kazakhstan increased by 22% in the first 9 months of this year, reaching 21.1 million tonnes. Exports increased by 31% and imports by 10%.
Dostyk railway station is one of the most important hubs of the country's railways. It handles freight to and from China and Europe. Every day, the station's workers deliver 15 trains to China.
Working at the station is not without its difficulties. In winter and autumn, on the Koktuma - Passage No. 16 - Aktogay - Dostyk section, railway workers work in difficult weather conditions. The climate here is very continental. Temperatures range from +50C° in summer to -50C° in winter. The station is located on the Kazakh side of the Dzungarian Gate, which contributes to the formation of hurricanes and gusty winds (up to 70 m/s) that carry dust, sand and sometimes even small stones. Strong winds complicate the work of rail transport and affect the throughput of the section. The station staff do everything possible to minimise the impact of the elements and to ensure safety and timely transport.
