CONSTRUCTION of a fourth broad-gauge metro line in the Uzbekistan capital is expected to get under way in 2004-05, following the signing of an accord between Toshkent Metro and the China International Trust & Investment Corp at the beginning of June.
To be known as the Sergeli line, Line 4 will run for 8 km from the southern terminus of the Chilonzor line (Line 1) at Sobir Rahimov to serve new housing estates at Sergeli. There will be six stations, of which two will be underground and four elevated.
Citic has been awarded a contract to supply mechanical and electrical equipment, including a central train management system, radio communications and power supplies, together with 10 more four-car EMUs. The contract will be backed by an export credit guarantee from the Chinese government. Loans worth around US$200m will be provided by Chinese banks.
Metro operator Tashgorpasstrans expects to open the first section of the north-south Yunusobod line (Line 3) between the Line 2 interchange at Lokhutiy and Shahriston in September 2001.
