In an era of rapid urbanization and mounting pressure on city infrastructure, transport systems have become a defining factor of economic competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and social well-being. Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital and largest metropolitan center, stands at a critical juncture in redefining its urban mobility model. The launch of the State Program on the Improvement of Transport Infrastructure for 2025–2030, aligned with the General Plan of Baku City (2020–2040), marks a strategic shift from fragmented infrastructure expansion toward an integrated, sustainable transport ecosystem.

This transformation also comes at a time when Baku is preparing to host a major global urban policy event. In 2026, the city will host the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), the United Nations’ flagship platform for sustainable urban development, placing Azerbaijan’s capital under international scrutiny and elevating the strategic importance of its transport and urban reforms.

Since 2003, Azerbaijan has invested heavily in transport infrastructure across all modes. Nationwide, more than 20,767 kilometers of roads, 335 bridges, 45 tunnels, and 163 pedestrian crossings have been constructed. Rail transport has expanded through 1,562 kilometers of new lines, the rehabilitation of 1,906 kilometers, and the acquisition of modern rolling stock.

In Baku, the metro network grew from 30 km to 41 km, with seven new stations and one depot, while annual passenger numbers increased from 137 million to 230 million over the past two decades. Public bus transport was modernized through the delivery of more than 1,300 buses and electric buses to BakuBus LLC. Meanwhile, Azerbaijan’s aviation sector strengthened its role as a regional hub with the commissioning of Fuzuli, Zangilan, and Lachin international airports, and plans to increase the annual capacity of Heydar Aliyev International Airport to 20 million passengers.

However, these impressive figures also reveal a critical limitation: infrastructure supply has struggled to keep pace with rising demand. Rapid population growth, suburban expansion, and increased private car ownership have placed sustained pressure on Baku’s transport network, turning congestion into a structural rather than temporary problem.

The scale of the challenge was openly acknowledged by President Ilham Aliyev in a recent interview with local media. Speaking candidly, the President noted that despite the construction of around 50 tunnels, nearly 50 bridges, and 2,500 kilometers........

© AzerNews