The Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan in Baku recently officially announced the plan for the construction of a tram network in the capital city. Five new lines will be built to integrate with existing subways and commuter railways, creating an efficient and convenient public transportation framework covering the entire city. The project is scheduled to be fully completed and put into operation before 2030.

According to the plan, the five lines will connect the core area of the main city, the northern area, the east and west wings, the southern coastal area, and the international airport, forming a "one ring, multiple shots, and full coverage" tram network. The first line has been basically determined, starting from Mehdi Abad in the north and ending at the "May 28th" transportation hub in the south. New transfer stations will be built simultaneously to achieve seamless connection with suburban railways and subways. The remaining four lines serve the northwest, east, south, and airport directions respectively, with multi-point transfers to existing rail transit stations, effectively connecting the suburbs and the city center, significantly alleviating congestion and improving commuting efficiency. The project also plans to construct three vehicle depots to ensure vehicle parking, maintenance, and intelligent operation and maintenance.

According to the schedule, Baku will complete the overall design of five lines within 2026 and then initiate international construction bidding. The official of Azerbaijan stated that it will publicly select partners for cooperation worldwide, with leading infrastructure companies from China, Europe, and other countries within the potential scope of cooperation. Through a transparent mechanism, the best technology and construction solutions will be selected to create a high-quality and sustainable benchmark project for urban rail transit.

The implementation of the tram network this time is a key measure for Baku to build the central city of the Caspian Sea region and improve its modern comprehensive transportation system. With the completion and operation of the line, the accessibility and livability of the city will be comprehensively improved, injecting strong momentum into regional economic development, livelihood improvement and connectivity, and opening up new space for cooperation in transportation infrastructure under the framework of the joint construction of the "the Belt and Road".Editor/Bian Wenjun