Construction of a new road section in Armenia’s Syunik region leading toward the Iranian border is expected to be completed in 2027, with approximately half of the work already finished, according to the Road Department Fund.
The project covers a 32-kilometre Kajaran–Agarak segment of the North–South transport corridor and is being implemented by a consortium of Iranian companies, including Abad Rahan Pars International Group and Tunnel Sadd Ariana, Caliber.Az reports, citing Armenian media.
Officials say construction works are currently focused on earthworks, tunnel excavation, bridge building, and other engineering structures.
Once completed, the physical distance between Kajaran and Agarak will remain largely unchanged. However, improved road standards, bypasses around populated areas, and the construction of bridges and tunnels are expected to significantly reduce travel time and enhance traffic safety.
Authorities estimate that traffic volume along the route could increase by more than 100%—around 108%—within 15 years of the project’s launch.
In addition, construction of the 7.2-kilometre Kajaran tunnel is planned to begin in 2026 and is expected to take six years to complete.
The North–South corridor project in Syunik includes the development of a 32-kilometre road segment from the Iranian border at Agarak to Kajaran, featuring five interchanges, two new tunnels, and 15 bridges. It also includes the planned Kajaran tunnel and additional access roads.
The project is intended to ease pressure on the Meghri Pass, located at an altitude of 2,535 metres, by shortening the route by around 14 kilometres, increasing average speeds from 50 km/h to 80 km/h, and reducing travel time by approximately 40 minutes.
