An important road contract is being carried out in Kyrgyzstan. The project will see the construction of a new North-South road route. This is due for completion in 2024 and is expected to cost US$860 million.
Much of the financing for the project has been provided by a loan supplied via the China Eximbank. Meanwhile, much of the construction work is being carried out by Chinese contractor, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC). The work will also help improve the country's connections to its neighbours, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and also China.
The project is complex as the country’s geology and topology present many challenges for road builders. Mountainous terrain means that tunnels have had to be built. Getting construction equipment and materials to the often remote locations with difficult access has presented challenges.
The project has not been without controversy either. There have been allegations of misconduct by former politicians connected to the works, while there have been suggestions that a rail link would be more appropriate.
