Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan plans to offer passengers discounts of at least 20% when purchasing electronic tickets for suburban trains and buses under a proposed strategy for developing domestic passenger transport through 2030.
The measures are included in a draft presidential resolution on the strategy, according to the draft document.
The proposed discounts would apply in 2027–2029 to suburban trains and suburban and intercity bus routes. The initiative aims to encourage electronic payments, improve the transparency of transport records and reduce the shadow economy.
The Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and Uzbekistan Railways JSC are expected to develop and approve fare rules, settlement procedures and a mechanism to compensate for costs associated with the discounts.
Free suburban train travel
The draft also proposes free suburban train travel for passengers holding electronic tickets for long-distance trains. They would be able to use suburban services within the relevant region for 12 hours before the departure time stated on their ticket and for 12 hours after arrival.
The procedures for providing this benefit and integrating fare systems are to be developed and implemented by 1 September 2027. According to the draft, the measure is intended to increase suburban train occupancy and improve the use of rolling stock.
Free Wi-Fi and new services at transport terminals
From 1 July 2027, international airports, major railway stations and bus terminals are expected to introduce a basic package of passenger services in stages. These will include free Wi-Fi access for at least one hour.
Special electronic terminals will also allow passengers to enter a destination without a SIM card or mobile internet connection, check an estimated fare, order an official taxi and receive a receipt with a QR code.
The draft provides for free luggage storage for ticket holders for up to 24 hours before departure and 24 hours after arrival.
The document notes that Wi-Fi quality at transport facilities remains inadequate and that there is no unified system for providing passengers with free luggage storage.
The Ministry of Transport, Uzbekistan Airports JSC, Uzbekistan Railways JSC and regional administrations would be responsible for introducing these services. Funding is expected to come from the companies’ own resources and from entrepreneurs.
Single ticket for connecting journeys through Tashkent
For passengers transiting through Tashkent International Airport, the draft proposes the option of obtaining a single electronic ticket and checking in through to their final destination. It also envisages arranging baggage delivery to the destination without requiring passengers to collect it at an intermediate airport.
The proposed measures aim to make journeys more convenient and improve connections between different modes of transport.
The initiatives remain proposals within the draft strategy and do not mean that the new rules have already entered into force.
