Azerbaijan.US
Baku plans to construct a new ring road connecting the eastern and western parts of the city, a project aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving regional connectivity.
The initiative is included in the government’s 2025-2030 state program for the development of transport infrastructure in the capital and surrounding areas.
According to the project outline, the road will run from the Sabunchu district toward Sulutepe, creating a direct east–west corridor that allows vehicles to bypass the city center. The route is expected to serve drivers traveling from the eastern Absheron Peninsula toward Shamakhi, Sumgayit, Guba, and other northern regions.
At present, traffic moving in these directions is largely forced to enter the city through the Koroghlu metro area and along Ziya Bunyadov Avenue, one of Baku’s busiest transport arteries. The new road is designed as an alternative route, reducing pressure on these heavily congested sections.
Traffic safety expert Arshad Huseynov said the project could significantly ease east–west traffic flows. “This road will serve as a practical alternative to Ziya Bunyadov Avenue and help redistribute traffic more evenly across the city,” he noted.
Relief for key transport hubs
Officials expect the project to reduce congestion not only on Ziya Bunyadov Avenue but also on the Boyukshor Highway, the junction near Koroghlu metro station, and several connecting streets. These areas currently experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.
Preliminary assessments suggest that parts of the new route may follow the existing Balakhani road before passing south of the Binagadi settlement and connecting near Sulutepe, close to current road and environmental control posts. Final routing details are still under development.
Bypassing the city for freight traffic
One of the key advantages of the planned ring road is its potential role in redirecting freight traffic. Heavy trucks would be able to move from eastern Baku toward the Baku–Gazakh highway without entering the city’s central road network.
Currently, freight vehicles often contribute to congestion on major avenues during permitted evening hours. The new route could significantly reduce this pressure by keeping heavy transport outside densely populated areas.
Experts also stress the importance of integrating the new road into the broader transport system. This includes updating public transport routes and providing infrastructure for micromobility solutions in line with modern urban planning standards.
If implemented as planned, the project is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel times, and strengthen connectivity between different parts of Baku and the surrounding regions.
