Uzbekistan to boost Tashkent – Samarkand railway capacity ahead of high-speed project

As it was previously reported, the feasibility study for the new high-speed Tashkent – Samarkand railway is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025. Starting from January 2026, preparations for tender documentation are expected to begin.

Speaking at an open dialogue with entrepreneurs in the transport and logistics sector on July 28, organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mahkamov outlined the government's plans for the current railway line.

“We are currently working with other consultants to develop technical solutions to increase the capacity of the existing Tashkent – Samarkand railway. We don’t intend to wait until the new high-speed rail line is finished – we plan to boost the current line’s capacity by at least 20% in the near future,” said the minister.

However, according to Mahkamov, this move will not lead to lower ticket prices for passengers.

“This has nothing to do with ticket pricing – the aim is purely to reduce strain on the system,” he added.