ADB to allocate $233 mln to Uzbekistan for reconstructing key section of CAREC Corridor 2

Home > Newsroom > Top Stories > ADB to allocate $233 mln to Uzbekistan for reconstructing key section of CAREC Corridor 2

ADB to allocate $233 mln to Uzbekistan for reconstructing key section of CAREC Corridor 2

TASHKENT. Aug 28 (Interfax) - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved the provision of a $233.1 million loan to Uzbekistan for modernizing a key section of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Corridor 2 (the Middle Corridor) highway.

"The project aims to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and enhance road safety and climate resilience in western Uzbekistan," the ADB said in a press release.

The project involves constructing and reconstructing approximately 87 km of the Guzar-Bukhara-Nukus-Beyneu (A380) highway in Karakalpakstan (northwestern Uzbekistan), the ADB said. It also includes constructing a new 75 km bypass road (Turtkul-Ellikkala-Beruniy) and reconstructing a 12 km section of the existing A380 highway.

The project incorporates climate-resilient elements, including cement-concrete pavement, elevated embankments and improved drainage systems. It also involves implementing automatic axle load control technology and creating rest and service areas, including charging stations for electric vehicles.

"This investment will strengthen Uzbekistan's role as a regional transit hub and support inclusive economic growth in Karakalpakstan. By integrating climate-resilient infrastructure and intelligent transport systems, the project will ensure long-term sustainability and deliver safer and more efficient mobility for communities and businesses," ADB Country Director for Uzbekistan Kanokpan Lao-Araya was quoted as saying.

The total project cost is $293.7 million, of which the contribution of the Uzbek government is $60.6 million, the bank said.

Uzbekistan joined the ADB in 1995, and since then the bank has provided the country with loans, grants and technical assistance totaling $14.3 billion.

The CAREC Corridor 2 project is part of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program. The A380 road connects with neighboring Kazakhstan, passing through the territory of the Autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan, and is a transport corridor of international strategic importance.