Sadyr Japarov calls alternative North-South road a symbol of corruption

Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov has publicly denounced the alternative North-South road project, labeling it a "symbol of corruption" following a video of a rockfall on the route. The road, spanning 388 kilometers, has incurred costs of approximately $1 billion, translating to about $2.29 million per kilometer.

Japarov highlighted a stark contrast with more recent infrastructure projects, noting that four-lane roads built in Kyrgyzstan since 2020 have cost between $1.3 million and $1.5 million per kilometer. The North-South road, which is only two lanes, has faced significant cost overruns despite remaining partially unfinished and posing safety risks.

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As you can see, rocks continue to fall. Therefore, I urge all drivers to exercise extreme caution. If possible, especially in rainy weather, please avoid driving on this road.

Authorities decided to temporarily open the road to traffic from June 1 to November this year at the request of local residents. This decision was made despite the project's incomplete status and ongoing safety concerns, such as the continued rockfalls, which Japarov urged drivers to be cautious about, especially during rainy weather.

Construction on several engineering structures, including protective barriers and avalanche galleries, is still underway and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027. The full operationalization of the alternative North-South road is anticipated in early 2028. Japarov's strong condemnation suggests a deep dissatisfaction with the project's management and financial execution.

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The project has become a 'symbol of corruption.'