On the site of the market, which had been operating without permits since 2018, a green recreation area and a car park will be created. More than 150 traders vacated the area following an awareness campaign.
HOW THE SITUATION DEVELOPED
According to the Almaty city administration, the 'Rakhat' market was located in the Zhetysu district, within the so-called 'flea market' zone. The land plot was being used by TKM LLP without valid permits, which violated land and business legislation. The work to clear the territory is being carried out as part of the implementation of the 'Law and Order' principle and is aimed at creating a comfortable and safe urban environment.
From 6 April 2026, the office of the akim of the Zhetysu district, in execution of court decisions that had entered into force, carried out a comprehensive effort to clear the territory.
HOW THE TRADERS LEFT
More than 150 traders left the market after an awareness campaign. The city administration offered them alternative trading spaces at neighbouring markets on preferential terms to ensure continuity of their business activities.
During the works, the traders independently removed their shipping containers and dismantled roofing and fencing elements.
WHAT WILL APPEAR ON THE MARKET SITE
A landscaping project is currently being developed for the cleared territory. Plans include creating a comfortable recreation area for market visitors with landscaping elements. Part of the territory will be transferred to Almaty Parking LLP to organise a car park, which will improve transport accessibility and streamline parking in the area.
WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF CITY POLICY
The Almaty city administration is consistently implementing a policy of establishing order in the urban environment. The mayor of the city, Darkhan Satybaldy, previously emphasised the need to uphold the rule of law in the metropolis. Systematic work to identify and eliminate illegal trading facilities continues across all districts of the city.
