Questions and answers
What travellers and drivers ask the Gendarmerie most often.
Can I cross the Qara-Chik line with an ISEZ passport?
Yes, at the crossing points and in their opening hours. Residents of the tribal regions cross on a clan travel permit registered with the Gendarmerie. See the line.
What is the restricted zone?
The strip 12 km deep along the ISEZ side of the line. Residents and those with business there may enter; others need a pass from the district detachment.
When can a lorry with fuel go through the Otmek tunnel?
Only between 22:00 and 05:00, under escort, and only if the tanker is on the register. See roads for tonight's window.
How do I pay a traffic fine?
At any Talasbank branch or Irad Pochtasy counter with the payment slip, or online on e-Irad. Fines not paid within 30 days are doubled.
Where do I register a car and get plates?
At the Highway Patrol Corps registration office in Talas or Nurzhan. Registration and plates cost 250 som; five-day transit plates are issued for cars bought or moving.
Can I report smuggling without giving my name?
Yes. Reports of smuggling, fuel theft, unregistered tankers and suspicious loads are accepted without a name at duty@jandarm.iradgov.org, by telephone to the duty officer or at any checkpoint.