Page 59 - Azerbaijan State University of Economics

Nijat Mahmudov: Effects Of Transportation Infrastructure On Economic Growth
In Azerbaijan: ARDl Bounds Testing Approach

Despite the recent improvements in the road transport sector, there are still challenges
that need to be addressed. These challenges include inadequate funding for road
maintenance, inadequate public transport services in rural areas, and a lack of road
safety awareness among the general public. The government needs to continue
investing in the road transport sector, while also addressing these challenges to ensure
that the transportation system in Azerbaijan is safe, efficient, and sustainable.

Rail transport
Rail transport is an important mode of transportation in Azerbaijan, connecting major
cities and towns across the country with neighboring countries. The country has a
well-developed rail network with a total length of over 2,900 km (Azerbaijan
Railways CJSC, 2023), which is operated by the national railway company,
“Azerbaijan Railways” CJSC.

The rail transport sector in Azerbaijan has undergone significant modernization and
development in recent years, with the government investing heavily in the construction
and renovation of railway infrastructure. The BTK railway, which was completed in
2017, is a major achievement for the country, providing a fast and efficient rail link
between Europe and Asia. The government has also invested in new rolling stock and
equipment to improve the safety and efficiency of rail transport in the country. Rail
transport in Azerbaijan plays a crucial role in the transportation of goods, including oil
and gas, as well as in the movement of passengers. The railway system is also an
important part of Azerbaijan's international trade and economic relations, providing a
reliable and cost-effective means of transport for goods and people.

Despite the recent improvements in the rail transport sector, there are still challenges
that need to be addressed. These challenges include the need for further investment in
railway infrastructure, the need for modernization of existing railway stations, and the
need for improved intermodal connectivity between rail and other modes of
transportation. The government needs to continue investing in the rail transport sector
while also addressing these challenges to ensure that the railway system in Azerbaijan
is safe, efficient, and sustainable.

Air transport
Azerbaijan has three international airports, including Heydar Aliyev International
Airport in Baku, Ganja International Airport, and Nakhchivan International Airport.
Heydar Aliyev International Airport is the main international gateway to Azerbaijan,
and it handles more than 5 million passengers annually. Besides, there are airports in
Zagatala, Lankaran and Gabala regions. In recent years, new airports have been built
in the liberated areas – Fizuli, Zangilan and Lachin.

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