ADB seeks consultants for Azerbaijan railway modernisation project

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a selection process for consultants to oversee project management for the electrification and modernisation of the Balajari–Yalama railway section in Azerbaijan.

The consultancy contract is estimated at $2.09 million, with the project expected to run for 54 months. Work is tentatively scheduled to begin on February 1, 2027, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

The ADB is considering a $325 million loan to support the project. The project was appraised in January 2026, while approval of the proposed loan is expected in June 2027.

The project will focus on railway electrification and the modernisation of signalling and telecommunications systems along the Balajari–Yalama section. It is planned to be jointly financed by the ADB, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Azerbaijani government.

Azerbaijan has been an ADB member since 1999. Since then, the bank has invested approximately $5.6 billion in the country, including $4.4 billion in the public sector and $1.2 billion in the private sector. Energy and transport have been among the largest areas of investment.

Under its new partnership strategy, the ADB plans to provide Azerbaijan with up to $2.5 billion in financing.

Headquartered in Manila, the ADB was established in 1966 and currently has 69 member countries, including 50 from the Asia-Pacific region.

By Sabina Mammadli