Uzbekistan, Tashkent – AN Podrobno.uz. The first ten modern electric trains from Czech company Škoda Group will arrive in Uzbekistan in 2027. This was announced by First Deputy Chairman of Uzbekistan Railways (UTY) Hikmatilla Rakhmetov, noting that the timeline aligns with presidential decisions.

The agreements for the supply of modern equipment were finalized during the official visit of Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš to Tashkent on April 30. Following talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, a Joint Declaration was signed, elevating bilateral relations to the level of extended strategic partnership. Beyond transportation, cooperation will cover geology, the establishment of metrological laboratories, and joint training of diplomats.

The railway project, valued at €120 million, goes beyond mere procurement. The contract includes the creation of a joint venture in Uzbekistan and localization of production. As Škoda Group CEO Petr Novotný emphasized, a service center will be opened in the country, which is expected to become a technological hub for all of Central Asia. Additionally, the Škoda Academy educational platform will be launched to train local personnel.

Technically, the trains will be based on European platforms adapted to the 1,520 mm broad gauge and the region's climatic conditions. Production is planned using facilities in Latvia and Estonia. The new trains will primarily be deployed to develop suburban services, significantly enhancing comfort and mobility for the population.

Source: podrobno.uz