Uzbekistan’s Transport Sector Undergoes Comprehensive Transformation to Enhance Efficiency and Accessibility

Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed the progress of transformative reforms in Uzbekistan’s railway and aviation industries, underscoring significant strides in enhancing economic efficiency and service convenience.

Key achievements in the railway sector were presented, including the establishment of six independent enterprises under Uzbekistan Railways JSC. These reforms have streamlined operations, leading to the purchase of 1,200 new freight cars and halving the time required for domestic goods transportation. Digitalization efforts have also reduced the process of ordering freight cars from seven stages to three, cutting the implementation time from 72 hours to just 12. Notably, train capacity around Tashkent has increased by 30 percent, and the joint-stock company, once operating at a loss, is now reporting profits of 30 billion UZS this year.

Similarly, advancements in the aviation sector have been transformative. Uzbekistan Airways has expanded its flight frequency by 25 percent and deployed eight new aircraft on domestic routes, resulting in a 2.5-fold increase in domestic flights. The airline’s share in Central Asia’s international transport market has reached 20 percent, with annual passenger traffic projected to surpass 6 million. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan Airports, benefiting from increased private sector involvement, has improved its operational efficiency, handling flights from 44 global airlines. Cargo transport through airports is expected to grow by 22 percent this year.

Despite these achievements, challenges remain. President Mirziyoyev highlighted the importance of diversifying transport routes, accelerating transportation timelines, and reducing service costs to meet the demands of Uzbekistan’s growing economy, which aims to reach a GDP of $200 billion by 2030.

“To achieve this goal, we must prioritize the development of transport arteries that drive our economy and foreign trade relations, while also boosting tourism and improving regional connectivity,” the President emphasized.

A milestone in the transformation process was marked by the adoption of a new edition of the Law “On Railway Transport,” replacing legislation from 25 years ago. The updated law is expected to attract private investment and foster infrastructure development.

To ensure continued progress, President Mirziyoyev instructed industry leaders to modernize working methods and expedite construction and investment projects. He called for the attainment of international credit ratings, greater reliance on independent financial resources, and the efficient use of investments. Specific concerns in the aviation sector, such as high service costs and slow cost-cutting measures, were addressed with directives to develop a comprehensive transformation roadmap with consulting expertise.

The private management model, as evidenced by the success of Samarkand Airport—where flights and passenger numbers have quintupled—will be extended to airports in Namangan, Andijan, Bukhara, and Urgench. Plans to double airport services and increase revenues by 25 percent by year-end were also outlined.

The Navoi Airport terminal’s potential will be fully utilized as part of efforts to expand services and attract international resources. President Mirziyoyev further emphasized accelerating digitalization across the transport sector to enhance efficiency and achieve strategic goals.

This large-scale transformation underscores Uzbekistan’s commitment to modernizing its transport infrastructure, driving economic growth, and ensuring accessible and efficient services for its population.