AKIPRESS.COM - President Sadyr Japarov on August 27 launched the construction project of the Barskoon–Bedel road in Issyk-Kul region funded by domestic resources.

The project will be carried out by the Chinese company China Road. After reviewing various options and negotiations, China Road was chosen to complete all construction work by September 2029 and open the highway for free vehicle movement. The company will also be responsible for repairs during a warranty period.

Japarov emphasized the importance of the project and called on China Road to execute the work transparently and to a high standard. He stressed that everyone involved must take full responsibility and avoid delays or negligence.

The highway will significantly improve logistics between Kyrgyzstan and China reducing the distance from Aksu (China) to Kyrgyzstan by over 500 km and cutting travel time for freight by 12 hours. Round-trip savings exceed 1000 km and 24 hours. A large new checkpoint at Bedel will boost trade between the countries.

The route passes north to south through the Barskoon and Sook passes, Kara-Say valley and Ashuu-Suu pass.

To ensure year-round passage, a 5.5 km tunnel will be built at Sook pass, an overpass bridge near Kara-Say and another 3.8 km tunnel at the snowy Ashuu-Suu pass.

Key construction features include:

• 12 mountain switchbacks along the Barskoon river,

• 5.5 km tunnel at 3700 m altitude,

• overpass bridge and large multifunctional service complex at the 95 km mark,

• 3.8 km tunnel at Ashuu-Suu pass with full safety measures.