The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an $86.67 mn grant to improve Tajikistan’s road infrastructure, focusing on the development of the Dangara–Guliston green corridor. The project will upgrade a 49-kilometer road from two lanes to four lanes and integrate climate adaptation and sustainable practices.
This marks Tajikistan’s first road project utilizing ADB’s green roads toolkit, which promotes eco-friendly and resilient transport infrastructure. The toolkit ensures that economic, social, and environmental factors are incorporated into the planning and construction processes.
“ADB promotes safe, accessible, and green transport infrastructure in our developing member countries,” said Yevgeniy Zhukov, ADB Director General for Central and West Asia. “This project will be the first in Tajikistan to incorporate climate resilience and design elements focusing on women and girls.”
Key Project Highlights:
•Green Roads Toolkit: The ADB green roads toolkit will improve the road’s climate resilience, reduce pollution, and conserve biodiversity.
•Road Infrastructure: The widened road will include cycleways, sidewalks, improved lighting, and dedicated facilities for people with disabilities. Specialized restrooms for mothers and children are also part of the plan.
•Electric Vehicle Charging: To promote electric vehicles (EV), the project will fund two pilot EV charging stations and develop a framework for private sector investment in a national EV charging infrastructure.
•Economic Empowerment: The project will train women in local villages on how to start small businesses, with selected participants receiving entrepreneurship grants.
Co-Financing and Collaboration:
The project will receive $23 mn in funding from the Government of Tajikistan, with an additional $40 mn loan expected from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in early 2025. The Ministry of Transport will oversee the project, slated for completion by 2030.
Developed in collaboration with the International Road Federation and MetaMeta Research, the ADB green roads toolkit ensures that economic, social, and environmental objectives are balanced to create sustainable roads in Tajikistan.
ADB’s Role in Tajikistan’s Development:
Tajikistan has been a member of ADB since 1998, benefiting from over $2.7 bn in assistance, including more than $2.2 bn in grants. This latest project is part of ADB’s broader strategy to improve Tajikistan’s infrastructure, with investments in roads, energy, health, and education.
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