Mirziyoyev Inspects Upgraded Shota Rustaveli Street with Newly Implemented BRT System

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 15 October, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Yakkasaray district of Tashkent to review the results of the reconstruction of Shota Rustaveli Street. Developing road infrastructure and creating comfortable conditions for traffic remain priority tasks for the rapidly growing capital. In Tashkent, new modern roads and bridges are being built consistently, while existing sections are upgraded to meet contemporary standards.

Shota Rustaveli Street is one of the city’s central thoroughfares, connecting multiple districts. During the reconstruction, a nearly seven-kilometer section from Mirabad Street to Choshtepa Street was modernized. The traffic layout now includes ten lanes: six for cars, two for buses, and two for parking.

The President, accompanied by representatives of governmental and public organizations, rode along the street on a bus, assessed the improvements, and spoke with passengers. For the first time in Tashkent, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system—dedicated lanes for public transport—was implemented based on international best practices, allowing faster bus movement and enhanced passenger comfort.

The $19.2 million project increased passenger flow from 2,500 to 6,000 people per hour, while the road’s vehicle capacity reached 40,000 cars per day. Average travel speed rose from 23 to 30 kilometers per hour. At the same time, road safety improved significantly, with a reduction in traffic accidents.

The reconstruction included the installation of 21 new bus stops and 463 “smart” traffic lights, alongside the implementation of an intelligent transport system. Parking areas, bicycle lanes, green spaces, irrigation, and drainage systems were also developed. The President was presented with plans to expand the network of dedicated bus lanes and create transport hubs around the capital.

“If we did not build new metro lines and acquire modern buses, traffic in Tashkent would become extremely difficult. That is why we are developing roads and public transport to make travel convenient for people. We will continue this work in all our cities,” stated Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The head of state instructed responsible officials to further improve public transport convenience, reduce congestion, and ensure efficient connectivity between Tashkent and New Tashkent.

The upgraded Shota Rustaveli Street has not only transformed the capital but also symbolizes Tashkent’s transition to a modern and intelligent transport system.