Kyrgyzstan plans to build a railway connecting Batken and Kokand

Kyrgyzstan is planning to implement several railway construction projects in the coming years. This is stated in the National Development Program until 2030, published by the government of the republic.

The document highlights the importance of transport and logistics integration and diversification for the country. However, the deterioration of roads, bridges, and railway tracks has led to reduced cargo flow speeds and increased domestic transportation costs.

The added value of Kyrgyzstan’s transport sector amounts to $0.5 billion. The government identifies the country’s weak connectivity to international transport corridors as a factor limiting its export potential.

Plans to modernize transport infrastructure by 2030 include railway network development. Special attention is given to the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project and its role in expanding transit opportunities and trade relations.

The expansion of domestic railways is also planned. This includes the Balykchy-Karakol railway branch, announced by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov in May 2024.

As part of the development plan for the Batken region, a railway from Batken to Kokand is expected to be built. It is anticipated that this project will create jobs, improve transport infrastructure, and boost trade. However, no specific details about the project have been provided.

Additionally, the program includes the creation of an international airport in Jalal-Abad, modernization of the airports in Batken and Razzakov, the construction of the Chatkal-Tashkent highway, and the renovation of several other roads.

China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway

In September 2022, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and China agreed on the route for a 454 km railway line. The financial aspects of the project remained one of the key issues in subsequent discussions.

The final agreement on railway construction was signed in June 2024. Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan each hold a 24.5% stake in the joint project company, while the remaining 51% belongs to China.

According to Azamat Sakiev, the director of Kyrgyz Railways, the project is estimated to cost $4.7 billion. Half of this amount will be funded by the participating countries in proportion to their shares, while China will provide the remaining $2.35 billion as a non-commercial loan.

A month later, Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved the allocation of $255 million from Uzbekistan Railways for the project. The first $14 million was planned to be provided by the end of 2024.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place in the Jalal-Abad region of Kyrgyzstan at the end of December. Once operational, the railway is expected to transport 15 million tons of cargo annually.