Baku:The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a loan of $302.38 million to upgrade the signalling system and digitalize the operations of Baku Metro.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this funding aims to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency in Azerbaijan’s capital metro services, aligning with the expansion of the network. The investment is part of the Azerbaijani government’s broader $2.6 billion Baku Metro expansion strategy, which includes the construction of nine new stations, two depots, and 20 kilometers of tunnels. Additionally, the plan involves the acquisition of 300 metro carriages and modernization of operational systems to boost service coverage and passenger capacity while alleviating traffic congestion in Baku.
ADB Country Director for Azerbaijan, Sunniya Durrani-Jamal, emphasized that the project is a significant step in transforming Baku Metro into a modern urban transport system through digital technologies. The introduction of advanced signalling technology and integrated digital systems is expected to improve the safety and efficiency of operations across the expanding network.
Baku Metro, managed by the state-owned Baku Metro Closed Joint-Stock Company, currently operates 27 stations along a 41-kilometer track, serving approximately 220.4 million passengers in 2025. The modernization project will replace the existing signalling system with a communications-based train control technology and upgrade the operations control center, facilitating shorter train intervals during peak hours and reducing service interruptions.
The financing will also enhance integrated digital systems for various corporate operations, including asset management, cybersecurity, passenger information, and crowd management, supported by upgraded data centers and secure network infrastructure. The investment is anticipated to improve data utilization, strengthen maintenance and decision-making processes, and increase energy efficiency.
The modernization will include technical training and staff development to boost Baku Metro’s institutional capacity, with a focus on increasing the representation of women in technical and digital roles. The total project cost is estimated at approximately $515.07 million, with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank expected to provide $79.98 million in co-financing and the Azerbaijani government contributing $132.71 million.