On Friday, January 10, a press conference was held to review the achievements in Azerbaijan’s transport sector over the past year and outline plans for 2025. Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Rahman Gummatov, highlighted that thanks to the sustained focus of President Ilham Aliyev and the reforms implemented over the last 20 years, the country has seen significant advancements in road infrastructure. Over this period, 20,767 kilometers of roads were built, reconstructed, or repaired, along with the construction of 335 bridges and overpasses, 163 pedestrian underpasses and overpasses, and 45 tunnels. The development of the capital’s metro system included seven new stations, a depot, and the launch of the new Purple Line.
Special attention has been given to restoring transport infrastructure in territories liberated from occupation. Currently, 44 road projects spanning 3,371.1 kilometers are being implemented. These works include the construction of 45 tunnels, 447 bridges, and 16 viaducts. These projects form part of a comprehensive program aimed at the reconstruction and development of the regions, underscoring the strategic importance of the transport sector for the country’s socio-economic growth.
Reforms initiated two decades ago have yielded impressive results. In 2024, the volume of transit cargo transported across the country increased by 10.5%, reaching 14.8 million tons, including 7.3 million tons moved via rail. Passenger traffic at Heydar Aliyev International Airport grew by 31%, while metro ridership rose by 5% to 230 million. Rail passenger numbers reached 8.5 million, and BakuBus services recorded a 20% increase, carrying 148 million passengers. The transport sector’s overall production value grew by 13.7% over 11 months in 2024, reaching 13 billion manats.
The Deputy Minister also emphasized efforts to enhance urban transportation. Studies have identified the potential benefits of reintroducing trams to Baku. Proposed routes include a line from Mehdiabad through Azadlyg Avenue to the “28 May” metro station and new residential areas near “Seebreeze.” In September 2024, the bicycle-sharing service “Apar” was launched, enabling users to cover a total of 215,800 kilometers. Currently, around 4,670 micromobility vehicles, including e-scooters, bicycles, and e-bikes, operate in Baku, promoting environmentally friendly transport solutions in the city.
Special focus has been placed on expanding cashless payment systems. In 2024, 77.5% of payments for transport services in Baku were made cashlessly, representing a 17% increase compared to 2023. The number of buses equipped with cashless payment systems rose from 1,400 in 2023 to 2,000 in 2024. Public transport ridership also increased by 28 million passengers over the year.
These achievements demonstrate that Azerbaijan’s transport policy is on track to create an efficient, sustainable, and innovative transportation system that meets both current and future challenges.
