Kazakhstan is preparing to adopt a major new constitutional law redefining the status and development of its capital, signaling a large-scale shift in urban governance and planning.

The draft law “On the Status of the Capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan,” developed by the Kazakh Ministry of National Economy, has been released for public discussion, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The initiative aims to ensure sustainable growth, streamline governance, and modernize how the capital is managed.

Under the proposal, clearer powers will be assigned to maslikhat (local representative body) and akimat (local administration), across key sectors such as urban planning, ecology, transport, migration, and land use. The reform also seeks to eliminate overlapping responsibilities currently duplicated in existing legislation.

A major highlight is the introduction of a unified architectural and design code, setting consistent standards for buildings, infrastructure, advertising, lighting, and the city’s overall visual identity.

The draft also defines the capital’s official boundaries and suburban zones, while introducing a dedicated traffic management center to oversee parking systems and regulate heavy and freight transport.

Authorities plan to establish a specialized development organization tasked with attracting investment, promoting tourism, preparing for international events, and implementation of innovative solutions - including in green energy.

Environmental protection is another key pillar: strict restrictions will be enforced in forest park zones, banning activities that could harm ecosystems, such as pollution, soil disruption, and hunting.

If approved, the new law is expected to come into force on July 1, replacing the current legislation adopted in 2007 - marking a new chapter in the evolution of Kazakhstan’s capital.