ADB Approves $302 Million Loan to Modernize Baku Metro Signaling
ADB has approved a $302.38 million loan to modernize Baku Metro's signaling and digitalize operations, part of Azerbaijan's $2.6 billion metro expansion.
The story in focus
The Asian Development Bank has approved a $302.38 million loan to modernize Baku Metro's signaling system and digitalize operations, part of Azerbaijan's $2.6 billion expansion program. The project will replace existing signaling with communications-based train control and upgrade the operations control center.
- ADB approved a $302.38 million loan for Baku Metro signaling and digital operations.
- The project sits within Azerbaijan's $2.6 billion metro expansion program.
- AIIB will cofinance $79.98 million and Azerbaijan will contribute $132.71 million.
Financing and project scope
The Asian Development Bank approved a $302.38 million loan to modernize Baku Metro's signaling system and digitalize its operations, the bank announced from Manila. The project has a total estimated cost of $515.07 million, with $79.98 million in cofinancing from AIIB and $132.71 million from the Government of Azerbaijan.
It falls under Azerbaijan's $2.6 billion Baku Metro expansion program, which includes about 20 kilometers of new tunnels with 9 stations, 2 depots, and 300 additional metro cars, alongside modernization of operational systems. The program aims to expand coverage and capacity and address heavy road congestion in greater Baku.
What the work involves
The project will replace the existing signaling system with communications-based train control technology and upgrade the operations control center. ADB expects the investments to enable more frequent peak-hour services and reduce operating incidents that disrupt services and affect passenger safety.
It will also introduce integrated digital systems for corporate functions, asset management, cybersecurity, passenger information, and crowd management, supported by upgraded data centers and secure network infrastructure. ADB says these are intended to help the operator use operational and enterprise data more effectively, improve maintenance and decision-making, and increase energy efficiency.
Institutions and workforce
Baku Metro is operated by the state-owned Baku Metropolitan Closed Joint-Stock Company, which runs 27 stations across roughly 41 kilometers of track and recorded about 220.4 million passenger boardings in 2025. The project will add technical training and workforce development, and promote greater participation of women in technical and digital roles through recruitment, training, certification, and career development measures.
How is the Baku Metro signaling project being financed?
ADB is providing a $302.38 million loan. Total estimated cost is $515.07 million, with $79.98 million in AIIB cofinancing and $132.71 million from the Government of Azerbaijan.
Sources & further reading
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