Georgian Railways’ locomotives are overwhelmingly outdated, according to the company’s management report. Nearly all locomotives, 99% were manufactured over 30 years ago, with 78% over 35 years old. The railway currently operates 91 active locomotives.
Freight wagons are similarly aged. Of the 4,088 wagons, 85% are over 30 years old, including 75% older than 35 years. Only 8% of wagons are younger than 21 years. The report highlights a sharp decline in rolling stock over the past decade: freight wagons fell by 42% since 2015, while active locomotives decreased by 44% over the same period.
To modernize its fleet, Georgian Railways announced a 20 million GEL tender in November for 120 new freight wagons. Negotiations are ongoing with the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank to finance new locomotives and wagons.
Next year, 325 million GEL is allocated in the budget for this purpose, though details remain unclear. The Asian Development Bank noted that final approvals and official project information will be published once decisions are made.
