Photo: yuz.uz
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $233.1 million loan to Uzbekistan for the modernization of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) road corridor. The project includes both new construction and upgrades to highways in Karakalpakstan, a sovereign republic within Uzbekistan, the international financial institution announced.
In particular, about 87 kilometers of the Guzar–Bukhara–Nukus–Beyneu highway in Karakalpakstan will be reconstructed, along with repairs to another 12-kilometer stretch of the same route. In addition, a 75-kilometer bypass road linking Turtkul, Ellikkala, and Beruni will be built.
The project aims to improve regional infrastructure, reduce travel time, and enhance road safety. According to the bank, construction will use cement-concrete pavement, elevated embankments, and improved drainage systems designed to withstand the effects of climate change and extreme weather.
ADB will also support the installation of intelligent transport systems and weigh-in-motion technologies to improve vehicle monitoring, enforce axle load standards, and reduce road maintenance costs. Five rest and service areas, including charging stations for electric vehicles, will be built along the corridor.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $293.7 million, of which $233.1 million will be financed by ADB and $60.6 million contributed by the government of Uzbekistan.
Kanokpan Lao-Araya, ADB’s Country Director for Uzbekistan, said the investment would strengthen Uzbekistan’s role as a regional transit hub and contribute to inclusive economic growth in Karakalpakstan.
“The introduction of climate-resilient infrastructure and intelligent transport systems will ensure long-term sustainability while making travel safer and more efficient for people and businesses,” the ADB representative concluded.
ADB has been cooperating with Uzbekistan since 1995. Over the years, the institution has provided government loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling about $14.3 billion.
