WB: Reconstruction of Yenikend-Bilasuvar highway in Azerbaijan nearing completion

The government of Azerbaijan has utilized 71% of the World Bank (WB) loan allocated for the implementation of the Regional Connectivity and Development project, Report informs via WB.

According to the WB report, $46.22 million has already been used out of the total loan of $65 million. The total cost of the project is $95.88 million.

The main objective of the project is to create a safe, efficient, and climate-resilient transport infrastructure, as well as to improve market accessibility along the Yenikend-Salyan-Bilasuvar road corridor.

The project will benefit approximately 250,000 people living along this route through upgraded road infrastructure and expanded economic opportunities. The project includes three components. The first, Road Connectivity, is estimated at $59.24 million. The second component, aimed at Road Sector Sustainability, costs $2 million. The third component, Local Development and Logistics, is also estimated at $2 million.

"The project was declared effective on December 13, 2021. Implementation of most project activities is on track. As of mid-September 2024, disbursements under the project have reached $46.22 million, or 71% of the total loan amount. Under the key Road Connectivity component, the contractor for the Yenikend - Bilasuvar road construction works is fully mobilized and making good progress. The financial value of the implemented physical works as of August 2024 stood at about 75% of the contract price and the works are expected to be completed by the end of the calendar year," reads the report.

The reconstruction of the 71-kilometer section of the Yenikend-Salyan-Bilasuvar road on the M-3 Alat-Astara highway to the state border with Iran will be completed by the end of the year.