Nakhchivan: "Azerbaijan Railways" CJSC (ADY), a subsidiary of AZCON Holding, is making significant progress in the reconstruction of the railway network in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, as announced by ADY to APA-Economics. This endeavor is part of a larger project to improve connectivity in the region, bordered by Trkiye, Iran, and Armenia.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the initial phase of this project commenced at the end of 2025 and focuses on the Salammelik, Ordubad, Aza, and Julfa sections. Construction is actively taking place on a critical 7-kilometer stretch from the Azerbaijan-Armenia border to Ordubad. The comprehensive plan includes a railway line stretching 194 kilometers, which extends to 264 kilometers with side tracks. The project involves constructing and refurbishing 814 engineering structures, including 10 stations, 3 platforms, 29 bridges, and 11 overpasses. Major reconstruction is underway on 12 protective galleries along the route, along with new overpasses and concrete channels.

Earthworks have been finalized for a 6-kilometer segment, and new rail-sleeper frames have been laid over 700 meters starting from Salammelik station. Upon completion, the railway is expected to handle an annual freight volume of up to 15 million tons.

The revamped railway in Nakhchivan will connect via Ordubad, while the Horadiz-Aghband line will link the main part of Azerbaijan to the Zangezur corridor. This will establish a direct railway connection between mainland Azerbaijan and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, providing a direct link to Trkiye.

The project aligns with the "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity" (TRIPP) agreement, established in Washington on August 8, 2025, which aims to restore the railway connection along the Zangezur corridor. Progress is also noted on other sections, with 60 percent completion on the Alat-Osmanli section and 73 percent on the Horadiz-Aghband section.

This new railway connection will enhance the Middle Corridor's capabilities, boost Azerbaijan's transit potential, and facilitate freight movement between Europe and Asia. It will also bolster access to Turkish and European markets and hold strategic significance for its link with the North-South transport route.