Georgian railway modernisation project begins operations

25 Dec 2025 CW Team

The Georgian Railway Modernisation Project, constructed by China Railway 23rd Bureau Group Co., has been officially commissioned, marking a major milestone in China–Georgia cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Located in central Georgia, the project runs from Zestaponi to Khashuri over 43.9 km, serving as a critical east–west transport artery. The scope included upgrading existing lines and constructing new sections, alongside works covering civil engineering, power supply, communications and station facilities. The project faced complex geological conditions, with challenging tunnel excavation, high-slope embankment protection and bridge installations addressed through technology-led construction and adaptive project management.

The scheme is the largest newly built railway project to be completed and put into operation in Georgia. It forms an important component of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor, enhancing the country’s rail capacity and strengthening logistics connectivity between China and Europe.

Operational benefits include a 37 per cent improvement in average travel efficiency between Tbilisi and western Black Sea ports, and a doubling of annual freight capacity. During construction, the project generated employment for around 1,000 local workers, alongside skills training and knowledge transfer.

With commissioning now complete, the project is expected to support industrial upgrading, regional development along the corridor, and deeper trade integration with neighbouring countries, reinforcing Georgia’s role in transcontinental freight movement.

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