Presidential Endorsement of Modern Rail
On May 1, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev personally inspected the newly electrified railway segment connecting Urgench and Khiva, underscoring the strategic importance the Uzbek government places on next-generation transport systems. This site visit highlighted the administration’s commitment to delivering faster, more reliable travel options and improving regional access through modern infrastructure.
President Mirziyoyev’s inspection not only symbolized governmental support but also reinforced the broader national vision of enhancing public services and connecting cultural and economic centers through efficient rail transit. His presence signified a hands-on approach in ensuring timely implementation and adherence to quality standards in the nation’s transportation projects.
Strategic Agreement with Hyundai Rotem and KORAIL
Uzbekistan’s modernization initiative took a significant leap forward in June 2024, when it signed a pivotal $200 million contract with South Korean giants Hyundai Rotem and KORAIL. This agreement involves the procurement and long-term maintenance of cutting-edge high-speed trains built with distributed traction technology—a system that provides superior acceleration, efficiency, and energy savings.
Each of these technologically advanced train sets consists of seven cars with a total capacity of 389 passengers. Built to operate at speeds of up to 250 kilometers per hour, these high-speed units are engineered for performance, safety, and comfort. Six such trains will serve the country’s expanding railway grid, covering a combined route of 1,216 kilometers. This will not only reduce congestion on traditional rail lines but also drastically improve the travel experience for both domestic commuters and international tourists.
Revolutionizing Travel Between Tashkent and Khiva
One of the most transformative impacts of the new high-speed line will be felt along the route between Tashkent and Khiva. Previously, the journey between these two cities took around 14 hours. Thanks to the new railway and high-speed capabilities of the Hyundai Rotem trains, this duration will now be slashed by nearly half—to just 7 hours and 40 minutes.
This dramatic improvement redefines mobility across Uzbekistan. Faster travel encourages business trips, weekend getaways, and cultural tourism, particularly to historical sites like Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage destination. It also allows for better planning, scheduling, and daily operations, as time-sensitive cargo and travelers can now move with significantly reduced delays.
Passenger and Freight Capacity to See Unprecedented Growth
The positive ripple effects of this mega-project are not limited to passenger convenience. Uzbekistan Railways projects that annual ridership will increase threefold—from one million passengers per year to over three million. This surge reflects growing confidence in rail transport as a preferred mode of travel, both for its affordability and reliability.
In parallel, freight movement will witness a sixfold growth. Previously limited in volume, the rail network is now expected to carry up to six million tons of cargo annually. This remarkable expansion enables businesses to rely on rail for large-scale, cost-efficient logistics, which will lower overhead costs and support trade competitiveness. Uzbekistan’s agriculture, mining, and manufacturing sectors stand to gain significantly from this shift.
Driving Regional Connectivity and Economic Transformation
This project aligns seamlessly with Uzbekistan’s long-term economic blueprint, which includes transforming the nation into a pivotal transit hub linking East and West. By bridging vital internal corridors and creating smoother links with neighboring countries, Uzbekistan is positioning itself at the heart of a new Silk Road for the twenty-first century.
The Hyundai Rotem partnership is a reflection of this broader ambition. It demonstrates how Uzbekistan is embracing global best practices, incorporating international technology, and attracting foreign investment to catalyze domestic growth. With better connectivity and shorter travel times, regional trade and tourism will flourish, further driving GDP growth and creating jobs in multiple sectors—from construction and maintenance to hospitality and retail.
Focus on Technology and Sustainability
The high-speed trainsets developed by Hyundai Rotem are more than just fast—they are built with energy efficiency and environmental impact in mind. The distributed traction system enables more effective braking and acceleration, which not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers maintenance costs over time. These trains represent a leap forward in environmentally conscious transportation, aligning with global standards for sustainability.
Moreover, the electrification of the railway from Urgench to Khiva signifies Uzbekistan’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and minimizing reliance on diesel-powered locomotives. This green transition is expected to have long-term benefits for air quality, public health, and climate resilience in the region.
A Tourism Catalyst for Khiva and Beyond
Khiva, one of Uzbekistan’s most culturally rich cities, is set to become more accessible than ever. Known for its ancient architecture and rich history, Khiva has long attracted international attention, but its remote location and difficult travel options limited visitor numbers.
Now, with seamless rail access, Khiva is poised to experience a tourism revival. The new high-speed connection will encourage both domestic and international tourists to explore the city’s historic sites with ease. Travel agencies, local businesses, and hospitality providers are expected to benefit significantly from increased foot traffic and tourism-related economic activity.
Uzbekistan’s success in completing the high-speed rail line and launching its partnership with Hyundai Rotem and KORAIL sends a strong message to the world—it is a nation ready to lead regional transportation reform. From drastically reducing travel times and enhancing logistics to tripling ridership and introducing energy-efficient rail systems, the country is laying the groundwork for sustained socio-economic transformation.
This achievement is not just a triumph of engineering—it is a symbol of Uzbekistan’s rising status as a forward-thinking nation investing in long-term progress. By embracing innovation and international collaboration, Uzbekistan is creating a future where travel is faster, more efficient, and better aligned with global trends in sustainability and digital infrastructure.
In the coming years, continued investments in rail technology, maintenance ecosystems, and regional cooperation will be vital. With strong political will, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision, Uzbekistan is well on track to become Central Asia’s most connected and competitive economy.
Tags: high-speed railway line, Hyundai Rotem trains, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan
