As Baku prepares to host the highly anticipated COP29 Global Climate Conference, starting November 1st, the Azerbaijan Railways CJSC has shifted into high gear, implementing a series of upgrades and enhancements across its entire network, according to Report.
In a bid to provide top-notch service during the conference, over 300 employees directly interacting with passengers have undergone rigorous training in customer service, English language skills, and environmental protection. The staff strength at stations and terminals has also been bolstered to ensure smooth operations.
Passenger convenience and awareness about COP29 have been given utmost priority. Navigation systems, including signs and monitors, have been installed along the Absheron Circular Railway route. The Baku Railway Station and Koroglu stop have seen an expansion of their turnstile halls, with the number of turnstiles increasing from 28 to 36 at the Baku Passenger Station, enabling it to handle up to 1,000 passengers per minute. Similar upgrades at the Koroglu stop have boosted its capacity from 108 to 270 passengers per minute.
Accessibility for passengers with disabilities has also been a key focus. Tactile flooring has been renewed at Baku and Sumgayit stations, lifts have undergone technical inspections, and ramps have been checked and added where necessary. The medical centers at these stations are now operating in an enhanced mode.
To keep passengers connected, free high-speed Wi-Fi zones have been improved at major stations. Train interiors have been thoroughly cleaned and branded with COP29-themed visuals, while spare trains have been allocated to ensure timely and safe passenger transportation.
Security has been beefed up, with increased presence of Azerbaijan Railways' Protection Department and the Ministry of Internal Affairs' Police Department for Railway Transport. Round-the-clock surveillance is being carried out at stations, terminals, and other infrastructure facilities.
The freight transportation service has also transitioned to an intensified working regime, with regular monitoring, staff training, and infrastructure diagnostics to ensure uninterrupted operations.
In line with COP29's environmental focus, areas along the railways have been cleaned up, with waste being sorted and disposed of appropriately. New tree belts have been planted as part of landscaping efforts.
The Azerbaijan Railways Museum has also been revamped, with multilingual guides, QR code-based exhibit information, a renovated interior, a "time train" corner, and a refreshed cinema hall showcasing documentaries on railways in multiple languages.
With these comprehensive measures in place, Azerbaijan Railways is fully prepared to welcome delegates and provide them with a seamless, safe, and eco-friendly transportation experience during the COP29 Climate Conference.