China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Construction on 304 km Route Proceeds Ahead of Schedule
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Kyrgyz Railways General Director Azamat Sakiev said construction of the 304-km China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is proceeding without delays and slightly ahead of schedule. Work includes bridge and tunnel construction, with three tunnels built to bypass ecologically protected areas. Archaeological finds such as burial mounds are being addressed through joint consultations with state bodies, even as the project stays on track.
Construction Progress
Sakiev confirmed work is advancing on all sections of the 304-kilometer route, with bridges and tunnels under construction. The project is slightly ahead of the planned timeline. Three tunnels, including Naryn and Kok-Art, have been completed to maintain the alignment. The railway will feature dual gauge tracks: 1435 mm from Torugart to Makmal and 1520 mm from Makmal to Jalal-Abad. The total Kyrgyz section length is planned at 311.76 km, with 50 bridges and 29 tunnels along the entire line.
Environmental and Archaeological Mitigation
To protect ecologically sensitive areas, builders rerouted the line through mountains, adding the three tunnels. Sakiev noted that ancient burial mounds discovered during excavation require reburial procedures, handled jointly with state agencies via a special council. All decisions are made collectively to preserve cultural heritage while keeping construction on schedule.
Economic Benefits
Sakiev stressed the railway will generate transit revenues, cut logistics costs, and ultimately lower consumer prices. Kyrgyzstan stands to gain from its position as a transit corridor. The project has drawn interest from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, with President Sadyr Japarov discussing potential support in February 2026.
What's Next
Further tunneling and bridge works are planned throughout 2026, with no final completion date publicly set. It remains to be seen how international financing, including potential AIIB support, will accelerate the project's timeline.
2 sources
China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Construction on 304 km Route Proceeds Ahead of Schedule
