WNAM MONITORING: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation on measures for developing the railway industry.
In accordance with the Presidential resolution of October 10, 2023, large-scale reforms are being carried out in this sector. The Uzbekistan Railways has undergone a structural transformation: non-core assets, adjacent land plots, and excess functions have been reduced. As a result, the company, which had previously operated at a loss, ended last year with a net profit of 47 billion UZS. After establishing the company Temiryoʻlkargo, the efficiency of freight car utilization doubled.
Nevertheless, the sector’s potential is far from exhausted. During the presentation, tasks were outlined for infrastructure development and revenue growth.
In particular, the opportunities for transporting transit cargo are not being fully utilized. By increasing the volume of such shipments by 40 percent in the coming years, revenues could potentially double.
For example, freight trains have been launched on the China – Türkiye route for the first time. New trains are being imported into the country, and the number of trips is increasing yearly. In this context, the need for the phased expansion of the railway infrastructure’s throughput capacity was emphasized.
This issue is particularly relevant in the suburbs of Tashkent. Currently, 70 percent of external cargo passes through the Chuqursoy station, sometimes leading to multi-day delays, additional costs, and queues.
In this regard, it has been proposed to relocate freight stations outside the capital and to build major stations in Yangiyul district and near New Tashkent. Additionally, the construction of the Ozodlik – Gulistan bypass line is planned. This will make it possible to double the volume of freight transportation without entering Tashkent.
Among the new projects is the Samarkand – Urgut railway line. Currently, 7 kilometers of track have already been laid. The total length of the line will be 54 kilometers, and two passenger stations and two freight stations will be built within the Urgut economic zone.
Special attention has been given to improving access to station areas and enhancing service quality. The need to create conveniences for movement, improve tourist conditions, and expand parking areas was emphasized.
Reports from responsible officials were also heard regarding plans for procuring electric trains and improving the quality of railway services.
