President Mirziyoyev reviews plans to modernize railway system

According to the presidential press service, major reforms have been underway in this field, in line with the presidential decree issued on October 10, 2023. As part of these reforms, the joint-stock company Uzbekistan Railways has undergone a structural transformation – non-core assets, adjacent land plots, and redundant functions were eliminated. As a result, the company, which had previously operated at a loss, closed last year with a net profit of 47 billion UZS. Additionally, the establishment of the company Temiryolcargo has led to a twofold increase in freight wagon efficiency.

Despite these achievements, the sector still has significant untapped potential. The presentation identified key priorities such as improving infrastructure and boosting revenue.

In particular, the country is not fully capitalizing on the potential for transit freight. By increasing the volume of such transportation by 40 percent over the coming years, it is possible to double the sector’s income.

For instance, freight trains have recently begun operating on a new China–Turkey route. More train sets are being imported, and the number of routes continues to grow annually. In this context, the need to gradually expand the railway system’s throughput capacity was emphasized.

This issue is especially pressing in the suburbs of Tashkent. Currently, 70 percent of external freight passes through the Chukursoy station, which at times causes multi-day delays, increased expenses, and long queues.

To resolve this, it was proposed to relocate freight terminals outside of the capital and construct large cargo stations in the Yangiyul district and near New Tashkent. Plans also include building a bypass line from Ozodlik to Gulistan, which would double cargo capacity without routing trains through Tashkent.

Among the new projects is a railway line between Samarkand and Urgut. So far, 7 kilometers of track have been laid. The full line will span 54 kilometers and include two passenger terminals and two freight stations within the Urgut Free Economic Zone.

Special attention was also given to improving accessibility at railway stations and enhancing the quality of services. There is a recognized need to create more convenient transport links, improve tourist facilities, and expand parking capacity.

The president also heard reports from relevant officials on plans to procure electric trains and improve the overall quality of railway services.