Georgia to launch major upgrades of Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway in 2026

Georgia will begin a large-scale modernization of the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars (BTK) railway starting in 2026, said Lasha Abashidze, General Director of Georgian Railway JSC.

The announcement was made during a panel session at the 5th Tbilisi Silk Road Forum, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Abashidze underscored the strategic importance of the BTK railway, describing it as a cornerstone of regional connectivity and a vital component of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor.

“As part of this project, a new terminal is planned for construction in Akhalkalaki. This terminal will serve as a key logistical hub, streamlining various freight operations,” Abashidze noted.

He emphasized that the BTK railway not only strengthens regional infrastructure, but also facilitates the development of new partnerships along the Middle Corridor. “The railway has the capacity to transport 5 million tons of cargo, and it is already enabling us to forge new connections along this strategic route,” he added.

Looking ahead, Abashidze stated that by 2027, the safety and speed of rail freight operations in Georgia are expected to see significant improvements as part of the broader modernization strategy.

The Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway, which connects Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Türkiye, plays a crucial role in bridging East and West by providing an efficient land-based alternative for cargo transit between Asia and Europe.

By Vafa Guliyeva