China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Under Construction After 20-Year Delay, Challenges Remain
The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) Railway, discussed for over 20 years, has entered active construction since July 2025 following a final agreement signed in Beijing on June 6, 2024. The 530 km route connects Kashgar, China to Andijan, Uzbekistan via Kyrgyzstan, with 304 km traversing the Tien Shan mountains. The project includes 50 bridges and 29 tunnels, with three major tunnels over 12 km each. A joint project company was established with China holding 51%, Kyrgyzstan 24.5%, and Uzbekistan 24.5%. The Kyrgyz section is valued at $4.7 billion, with China lending $2.35 billion. A compromise on track gauge was reached: 1435 mm from Torugart to Makmal, and 1520 mm from Makmal to Jalal-Abad, with a transshipment station at Makmal. Initial freight volume is estimated at 5-8 million tonnes annually, potentially rising to 13-15 million tonnes. Environmental concerns, seismic risks, and geopolitical sensitivities remain challenges. Completion is targeted for 2030, though early completion by 2028 is possible.
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