JUNCTION OF NINE ROADS

Each region and settlement of the vast Kazakh land possesses its unique history, marked by periods of growth and prosperity for its people. Railway construction in Kazakhstan began in earnest towards the end of the 19th century and continued into the early 20th century, significantly impacting the development of various regions. The Arys region, in particular, owes its establishment and growth to the railway junction that became the foundation of the city.

Between 1900 and 1906, an administrative and public center was established in Arys, catalyzed by the railway's presence. This center featured a railway station, administrative offices, a hospital, and housing for railway employees. The residents of the region began to collaborate closely with the railway workers and those involved in various construction projects, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. This cooperation played a crucial role in shaping the Arys region's historical and cultural identity.

The city of Arys, located at the crossroads of nine major routes, has long been celebrated as the city of railway men. With a history spanning over a century, Arys is deeply rooted in the railway profession. The railway sector stands as the city's main symbol, reflecting its rich heritage and ongoing significance.

The first railway station in Arys, constructed in 1904, remains in active use today, underscoring the city's enduring connection to the railway industry. This well-developed sector has become the livelihood for many families, with generations often following in the footsteps of their forebears' fathers and sons alike working in the railway field.

Known as the gateway to Central Asia, the residents of Arys earn their living not only through the railway industry but also in the military and various production facilities. Additionally, inhabitants of the six rural districts associated with the city manage 762,000 hectares of land, engaging in agriculture and livestock farming. To further boost employment, a trade and logistics center has been established in Arys. Today, the city, with a population exceeding fifty thousand, enjoys stability and prosperity, thanks to its diverse economic activities and communal resilience.

Kazakhstan boasts a highly developed and strategically significant railway system, playing a crucial role in the nation's transport infrastructure and economic development. The extensive network spans the vast expanses of the country, linking major cities, industrial hubs, and remote regions, thereby facilitating the efficient movement of goods and passengers.

The city of Arys stands out for its integration into Kazakhstan's railway system and its connection to international transport corridors, positioning it as a key link between Europe and Asia. Kazakhstan's active participation in the Belt and Road Initiative underscores its growing importance as a transit hub for Eurasian trade. Key routes like the Trans-Kazakhstan Railway and the Kazakh-Chinese railway lines handle substantial volumes of international trade, contributing significantly to the country's economic growth and strengthening regional ties.

The first train station in the city of Arys, has a rich history spanning over a century and continues to operate intensively. In 2019, following a catastrophic event, the building was reconstructed and underwent significant repairs. The modern architectural design, inspired by the pre-Islamic era, lends the station a timeless and unique aesthetic.

Originally built using natural, high-quality materials, the historic structure has retained its solidity over the years. Despite the passage of time and the recent renovations, the station continues to stand strong, embodying both its historical significance and modern resilience.

In Arys, there are specialized institutions and colleges dedicated to education and training in the railway system. These educational facilities offer comprehensive programs that encompass railway engineering, operations, management, and technology. Students engage in practical work under the guidance of industry experts and with advanced railway equipment, providing them with valuable hands-on experience to enhance their understanding and proficiency in the field.

These institutions attract numerous students from across Kazakhstan, not just from Arys, seeking to become well-versed in the intricacies of the railway industry. This diverse student body underscores the institutions' reputation as key centers for railway education in the country, fostering the development of skilled professionals who will contribute to the advancement of Kazakhstan's railway sector.

There are workers in Arys who have been in the railway sector for nearly half a century. One of these dedicated individuals is Mr Usen Kazhimukhan, which is why I decided to interview him.

-Good afternoon, Mr. Kazhimukhan. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. You've been working in the railway sector in Arys for almost 50 years. That’s quite a milestone! Can you start by telling us how you began your career in the railways?

-Good afternoon. It’s my pleasure. I started working in the railway sector back in 1983. I was a young man then, full of energy and excitement. My father worked on the railways as well, so you could say it runs in the family. I began as an assistant to the engineers, learning everything I could about the trains and the tracks.

-What motivated you to stay in the railway industry for so long?

-The railways are like a second home to me. The camaraderie among the workers, the sense of responsibility, and the sheer joy of seeing the trains run smoothly have kept me going. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn. Plus, knowing that our work helps connect people and places gives me a sense of pride and fulfillment.

-Can you share some memorable experiences from your long career?

-There are so many! I remember the time when we had a particularly harsh winter in the late '90s. The snow was so thick that the tracks were buried, and we had to work around the clock to clear them. It was exhausting, but we managed to get the trains running again, and seeing the relief on the passengers’ faces made it all worth it. Another memorable experience was the transition from diesel to electric trains. It was a significant change, and being a part of that evolution was exciting and rewarding.

-The railway sector has seen many changes over the years. How have you adapted to these changes?

- Adaptation is crucial in this line of work. When I started, everything was manual. Now, we have advanced technology that helps monitor the tracks and trains, making everything more efficient and safer. I’ve had to learn new skills and keep up with the latest developments. It wasn’t always easy, but the younger generation of workers and continuous training programs have been a great help.

-What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career?

-One of the biggest challenges is ensuring safety at all times. The railways can be dangerous if precautions aren’t taken. We've had incidents, and each one teaches us valuable lessons. Another challenge is maintaining the infrastructure, especially with limited resources at times. But we’ve always found ways to overcome these hurdles through teamwork and determination.

-How do you see the future of the railway sector in Arys?

-I believe the future is bright. The government is investing more in infrastructure, and there’s a strong push towards modernization. With the younger generation coming in with fresh ideas and new energy, I’m confident that the railways will continue to thrive. It’s important to preserve the legacy and history while embracing innovation.

-What advice would you give to young people considering a career in the railway sector?

-Be passionate and dedicated. The railway sector is not just a job; it’s a commitment to serving the community. Be ready to learn, adapt, and work as part of a team. The work can be tough, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you have a love for trains and a desire to make a difference, this is the place for you.

-Thank you, for sharing your incredible journey with us. Your dedication and insights are truly inspiring.

-Thank you. It’s been a pleasure talking with you. I hope my story can inspire others to pursue their dreams and contribute to our railway’s future.