Uzbekistan Accelerates Road Infrastructure Development to Meet Growing Traffic Demand
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been briefed on the progress of ongoing road construction projects as Uzbekistan continues to enhance its transport infrastructure to accommodate increasing traffic volumes.
The total length of roads in Uzbekistan exceeds 184,000 kilometers, with assessments indicating that around 25 percent of the country’s international roads are experiencing high traffic loads. Notably, the Tashkent-Samarkand highway, initially designed for 32,000 vehicles per day, now handles approximately 45,000 cars daily, extending travel times to six hours. By 2030, traffic intensity is projected to exceed 80,000 vehicles per day, necessitating significant improvements.
In response, a Presidential Resolution issued on October 10, 2023, outlined a strategic plan for developing modern highways aimed at creating favorable conditions for citizens and enhancing transport and logistics connectivity within the national economy.
According to the resolution, construction is underway for alternative highways connecting Tashkent to Samarkand and Andijan. Notably, the Tashkent-Andijan highway project, developed with the participation of the World Bank, has garnered significant international interest. An international tender for its construction was announced in January 2024, attracting more than 30 leading foreign companies within a short period. The high-speed highway, spanning 314 kilometers, is expected to reduce travel time between Tashkent and Andijan from five to three hours, boost gross domestic product by 2.6 percent, and decrease traffic accidents by 40 percent.
Additionally, another major initiative involves the construction of a supplementary highway linking Tashkent and Samarkand. A feasibility study, conducted in collaboration with international experts, has been completed. The new 300-kilometer road will shorten the travel time between the two cities from five to three hours while alleviating congestion on the existing route.
These new highways are being designed to meet modern standards, offering enhanced convenience and various paid services for drivers and passengers. Domestic construction companies are expected to play a substantial role in the projects, further contributing to the country’s economic development.
During a recent briefing, the Minister of Transport provided an update on the implementation of these projects. Discussions also focused on expediting geodetic surveys, preparing construction sites, attracting investments, and engaging contractors to ensure the timely completion of the initiatives.
