Turkmenistan Unveils New Section of High-Speed Ashgabat-Turkmenabat Highway

On April 17, 2024, Turkmenistan's President Serdar Berdimuhamedov inaugurated the Tejen-Mary section of the Ashgabat-Turkmenabat high-speed highway. This 109-kilometer segment is part of the larger 600-kilometer highway project that began construction in January 2019 and is being built in three stages.

The new six-lane highway features emergency lanes, robust bridges and underpasses, essential infrastructure like rest areas, and a comprehensive traffic control system. It also incorporates safe crossings for wildlife. The highway has received several international quality certificates, confirming its high safety standards and the use of innovative technologies in construction.

President Berdimuhamedov emphasized the highway's role in reviving the ancient Silk Road trade route in a modern format and connecting the capital Ashgabat with the Lebap province. He stated that Turkmenistan's favorable location at the junction of two continents provides a significant advantage in forming an international transport and logistics corridor, integrating the domestic transport sector into the global system, and expanding trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian ties with partner countries.

Why this matters: The unveiling of this new high-speed road segment is a significant step forward in Turkmenistan's efforts to enhance its transportation capabilities and support economic growth and development. The Ashgabat-Turkmenabat highway is expected to have a major impact on the region's economy, trade, tourism, and international collaboration.

The highway features cutting-edge technology, including electronic payment systems, constant video surveillance, and solar-powered road illumination. Scientists are excited to study the highway's construction methods, materials, and environmental impact, as well as its potential to harness renewable energy sources.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by government officials, international representatives, and media. President Berdimuhamedov also presented about 200 modern buses to the Mary velayat region and inaugurated a new Maternal and Child Health Center. The launch of the Tejen-Mary section marks another milestone in the ambitious Ashgabat-Turkmenabat highway project, which is set to significantly reduce travel times and improve connectivity within Turkmenistan and with neighboring countries.

Key Takeaways

• Turkmenistan inaugurated the Tejen-Mary section of Ashgabat-Turkmenabat highway.
• The 109-km highway features advanced infrastructure and technology, including wildlife crossings.
• The highway aims to revive the Silk Road trade route and enhance Turkmenistan's transport capabilities.
• The highway is expected to boost the region's economy, trade, tourism, and international collaboration.
• The project also included the delivery of modern buses and a new Maternal and Child Health Center.