Alat–Osmanli–Astara railway overhaul underway to boost Azerbaijan’s transport network

The reconstruction of the Alat–Osmanli–Astara railway line, a strategic segment of the International North–South Transport Corridor, is expected to be completed by 2027, according to Tural Abbasli, advisor to the chairman of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC.

Speaking at the first session of the National Business Development Forum held in Baku, Abbasli announced that active work is underway on the upgrade of the double-track section from Alat to Osmanli, while construction on the Osmanli–Astara segment is progressing in parallel, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

The total length of the railway under reconstruction is 243 kilometers, he said.

In addition, Abbasli revealed that the design phase of the Yevlakh–Barda railway line and its associated communication and signaling systems is also set for completion in 2027.

“Design work is ongoing, and once restored, the line will ensure the operation of the Yevlakh–Aghdam railway, contributing to broader connectivity in the region,” he said.

The Yevlakh–Barda railway line measures 38 kilometers in length, while the Yevlakh–Aghdam line spans 47.1 kilometers. Both lines are considered key components of the Karabakh branch of the Baku–Boyuk Kesik railway, and their rehabilitation is expected to significantly boost freight and passenger transport in Azerbaijan’s post-conflict territories.

The transport infrastructure session of the forum focused on proposals and strategies for enhancing the country’s logistics network, which plays a central role in Azerbaijan’s ambition to become a regional transit hub linking Europe and Asia.

Meanwhile, during a session of the National Business Development Forum titled “Discussion of Issues and Proposals on the Development of Transport Infrastructure," Javid Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, said that the geopolitical situation observed in the world in recent times has further enhanced Azerbaijan’s strategic importance in the field of international transportation.

He noted that large-scale reforms are being carried out in Azerbaijan to develop transport infrastructure, with the aim of encouraging greater activity from both the public and private sectors, as well as implementing more efficient systems through the use of innovative solutions and digital technologies.

“In recent years, the role of the transport sector in Azerbaijan’s economy has grown significantly, and its share in GDP has reached 6.5%,” he emphasized.

According to the deputy minister, efforts are being made to boost Azerbaijan’s transit potential and transform the country into a transport hub of Eurasia:

“In a short period of time, the volume of transit cargo passing through Azerbaijan has increased substantially. In addition, roads located along international routes are being reconstructed.”

By Khagan Isayev