Large-scale projects are being successfully carried out to improve the urban road network, construct new interchanges and bridges, and reduce congestion. Repair and rehabilitation works on Baku’s main highways, as well as the modernization of road infrastructure, are continuing in line with the growing number of vehicles.

One of the most significant achievements in the development of road infrastructure over the past 20 years has been the construction, reconstruction, and repair of a total of 20.8 thousand kilometers of roads, including 6.6 thousand kilometers of national roads, 11.6 thousand kilometers of local roads, and 2.6 thousand kilometers within Baku. In addition, 335 bridges and overpasses have been built on public roads and in Baku, 56 bridges have been rehabilitated, 163 underground and overground pedestrian crossings constructed, and 45 tunnels put into operation.

Globally, traffic congestion in large cities has increased significantly as a result of urbanization, economic growth, and rising access to private vehicles. Congestion, road accidents, environmental pollution, and high economic costs are among the main challenges facing urban transport systems. In this context, the State Program on Improving Transport Infrastructure in Baku and Surrounding Areas for 2025 to 2030, approved by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2025 and monitored and evaluated by CAERC, responds to global challenges by aiming to ensure the sustainable development of urban transport, strengthen environmental and social sustainability, and provide the population with access to high-quality and safe transport services. The Program seeks to align the city’s transport system with modern requirements and support the long-term and sustainable development of the area.

The State Program also prioritizes the digitalization of transport systems, the application of innovative technologies, and the optimization of traffic flow management from and around the city. This approach promotes environmentally sustainable transport solutions while improving the safety and efficiency of passenger and freight transport and addressing congestion challenges. Strengthening connectivity between Baku and surrounding settlements has been identified as a key priority. Planned measures include the construction of new circular and radial roads, multi-level interchanges and tunnel-type overpasses, the construction of 10 new metro stations, and the separation of existing metro lines. At the same time, the optimization of bus route networks, the introduction of new bus lines, and the expansion of dedicated bus lanes to 160 kilometers are envisaged. The Program also includes the expansion of bicycle lanes and lanes for small electric vehicles, the development of parking infrastructure, and the increase of pedestrian zones. In high-demand corridors, tram and bus rapid transit systems will be introduced, reducing dependence on private vehicles and enabling more efficient use of road space. Overall, the measures envisaged under the State Program reflect a comprehensive approach to creating a safer, more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable transport system in Baku and surrounding areas. The parallel and integrated development of roads, metro, buses, trams, pedestrian infrastructure, and alternative mobility solutions will enhance the capital’s long-term economic competitiveness and significantly improve residents’ quality of life.

Recent global trends in urban mobility, including the use of intelligent transport systems, modern traffic lights, expansion of environmentally friendly vehicles, parking control, ride-hailing services operating through mobile applications alongside traditional taxis, and innovations aimed at optimizing urban transport, clearly indicate priority areas for improvement in Baku and its surroundings. The application of these trends will increase transport efficiency, reduce congestion and traffic accidents, minimize environmental impacts, and improve overall quality of life.

Measures implemented under the State Program will not only ensure sustainable urban development, but also enhance Baku’s international competitiveness. Strengthening the role of public transport will reduce dependence on private vehicles and create conditions for the adoption of environmentally clean and modern transport solutions. In addition, the use of modern technologies such as Intelligent Transport Systems will optimize traffic management, improve the efficiency of urban and suburban connections, and enable more flexible and effective management of transport flows.

Overall, international experience shows that completely eliminating traffic congestion is not practically feasible, and this issue remains a challenge in both developed and developing countries, often associated with high alternative costs. Therefore, the primary objective is not to eliminate congestion entirely, but to manage the transport system in an efficient and balanced manner without hindering the city’s sustainable development.