BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 13.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan of $302.38
million to modernize the signaling system and digitize the
operations of the Baku Metro.
This was announced in the ADB’s statement.
According to the bank, this funding will help make metro
services in Azerbaijan’s capital safer, more reliable, and more
efficient, while also ensuring the effective operation of the
expanding metro network.
The bank noted that the project is part of the $2.6 billion Baku
Metro expansion program being implemented by the Government of
Azerbaijan.
“The program envisages the construction of 9 stations, 2 depots,
and 20 kilometers of new tunnels, the procurement of an additional
300 metro cars, and the modernization of the metro’s operational
systems. The project aims to expand the reach and capacity of metro
services while reducing traffic congestion in Baku and its
surrounding areas.
This project marks a significant milestone in transforming the
Baku Metro into an urban transport system that meets future demands
through digital technologies. Advanced signaling technology and
integrated digital operational systems will make existing services
safer and more reliable, while also laying the foundation for
efficient operations across Baku’s rapidly expanding metro
network,” said Sunniya Durrani-Jamal, Country Director for
Azerbaijan at the ADB.
The bank added that the Baku Metro, operated by the state-owned
Baku Metro CJSC, is a vital part of the capital’s public transport
system. The metro system serves 27 stations along a railway network
spanning approximately 41 kilometers, and in 2025, it transported
around 220.4 million passengers.
“The project to modernize the signaling system and digitize
operations at the Baku Metro will replace the existing signaling
system with modern, communications-based train control technology
and upgrade the operations control center. This investment is
expected to enable trains to run at shorter intervals during peak
hours and minimize operational incidents that could disrupt service
or compromise passenger safety.
In addition to modernizing the signaling system, the project
entails the implementation of integrated digital systems for
corporate operations, asset management, cybersecurity, passenger
information, and passenger flow management. These systems will be
supported by upgraded data centers and secure network
infrastructure. This investment will enable Baku Metro CJSC to make
more efficient use of operational and organizational data, improve
maintenance and decision-making processes, and enhance energy
efficiency.
The project will also strengthen the institutional capacity and
digital capabilities of “Baku Metro” CJSC through technical
training and workforce development. It will promote greater
representation of women in technical and digital roles through
recruitment, training, certification, and career development
initiatives.
The total cost of the project is approximately $515.07 million.
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is expected to
provide co-financing of $79.98 million, while the Government of
Azerbaijan is expected to allocate $132.71 million.
The ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting
sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development in the Asia and
Pacific region. Working with its member countries and partners, the
ADB utilizes innovative financial instruments and leverages
strategic partnerships to improve people’s lives, build quality
infrastructure, and protect the planet while addressing complex
challenges. Established in 1966, the ADB is owned by 69 members, 50
of which are from the region,” the statement emphasized.
