The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $302.38 million loan to modernize Baku Metro’s signaling system and digitalize its operations, helping to make metro services in Azerbaijan’s capital safer, more reliable, and more efficient while supporting the effective operation of its expanding network.

The project is part of the Government of 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, together with the modernization of metro operational systems. It aims to expand the coverage and capacity of metro services and help address heavy road congestion in the greater Baku area, according to ADB.

“This project marks an important milestone in transforming Baku Metro into a future-ready urban transport system through digital technology,” said ADB Country Director for Azerbaijan Sunniya Durrani-Jamal. “Advanced signaling technology and integrated digital operations systems will make existing services safer and more reliable, while laying the foundation for the efficient operation of Baku’s rapidly expanding metro network.”

Baku Metro, operated by the state-owned Baku Metropolitan Closed Joint-Stock Company (Baku Metro CJSC), is a critical part of the capital’s public transport system, operating 27 stations across approximately 41 kilometers of track and recording about 220.4 million passenger boardings in 2025.

The Baku Metro Signaling Modernization and Operations Digitalization Project will replace the existing signaling system with modern communications-based train control technology and upgrade the operations control center. The investments are expected to enable more frequent train services during peak hours and reduce operating incidents that disrupt services and affect passenger safety.

Beyond signaling, the project will introduce integrated digital systems for corporate functions, asset management, cybersecurity, passenger information, and crowd management, supported by upgraded data centers and secure network infrastructure. These investments will enable Baku Metro CJSC to use operational and enterprise data more effectively, improve maintenance and decision-making, and increase energy efficiency.

The project will also strengthen Baku Metro CJSC’s institutional and digital capacity through technical training and workforce development. It will promote greater participation of women in technical and digital roles through recruitment, training, certification, and career development measures.

The project has a total estimated cost of $515.07 million. AIIB will provide $79.98 million in cofinancing, while the Government of Azerbaijan will contribute $132.71 million.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members-50 from the region.