The distance between Kalbajar and Lachin will be shortened by 31.98 kilometres following the completion of a new highway currently under construction, according to the Azerbaijan State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads.
The 75.8-kilometre Kalbajar-Lachin highway is being built through complex mountainous terrain and will feature two to four traffic lanes, corresponding to technical grades I and II.
The project includes the construction of 17 tunnels, seven viaducts, 14 bridges and 212 culverts.
According to the agency, drilling work has already been completed in all tunnels, which have a combined length of more than 13 kilometres. Concreting work has been completed in 12 tunnels.
More than 2,085 workers and 509 pieces of construction equipment are currently involved in the project.
Overall, more than 50% of the construction work has been completed.
The new highway is expected to significantly reduce travel distances between Kalbajar and Lachin while improving connectivity across the mountainous areas of the region.
Beyond shortening the route between the two districts, the highway is also expected to contribute to the formation of a new transport corridor in the region, supporting mobility, economic activity and the development of surrounding areas.