Central Asia is experiencing a significant shortfall in the development of its railway network. Currently, the total length of railways in the region is about 45,000 kilometers. In comparison, this figure exceeds 130,000 kilometers in India and reaches 150,000 kilometers in the USA. This information was presented by the General Director of Wabtec Kazakhstan, Gaini Duysenova, at the B5+1 business forum held in Bishkek.
The expert noted that despite railways accounting for 70% of freight transportation over the past five years, the infrastructure urgently needs modernization.
“Investment and modernization of railway infrastructure, as well as the renewal of the locomotive and wagon fleet, and the construction of new routes are extremely necessary. Our company has been operating in this region for 20 years, and we see a pressing need to expand railway transportation,” emphasized Gaini Duysenova.
Experts in logistics and marketing also share the views of the transportation company representative. They highlight that the lack of accessible and extensive railway routes is one of the main factors contributing to the rising prices of agricultural products in Kyrgyzstan. Improving transportation infrastructure could optimize costs and reduce food prices.
