Uzbekistan is set to modernize its railway system by purchasing electric trains from South Korea and the Czech Republic. This is part of a broader effort to improve transportation infrastructure and connectivity in the country.
In October 2023, the Uzbek government will sign direct contracts with Hyundai Rotem and Skoda Transportation to purchase a total of 36 electric trains. This includes 6 high-speed trains from Hyundai Rotem, which will be financed by a 185mn euro loan from the Economic Development and Cooperation Fund of the Republic of Korea (EDCF). The remaining 30 electric trains will be purchased from Skoda Transportation, with financing provided by Czech banks at an interest rate of 5.5% per annum for 15 years.
The purchase of new electric trains is a significant investment in Uzbekistan's railway system. It will help to improve the speed, efficiency, and comfort of passenger travel, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
This is not the first time that Uzbekistan has turned to South Korean companies to improve its railway system. In 2018, Uzbekistan Temir Yollari (UTY), the national railway company, selected the Spanish company Talgo to supply high-speed trains for the new Afrosiyob line between Tashkent and Samarkand. However, UTY has now decided to diversify its suppliers by partnering with Hyundai Rotem and Skoda Transportation.
The purchase of new electric trains is just one part of Uzbekistan's ambitious plan to modernize its railway system. The government is also investing in new railway lines, stations, and signaling systems. This investment is expected to boost economic growth and improve the lives of millions of Uzbek citizens.
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