Tbilisi mayoral candidate from the ruling Georgian Dream party, Kakha Kaladze, explained on Rustavi 2 why the rehabilitation of the Varketili metro station has been delayed. According to him, the main reason was the lack of qualified local specialists, which made it necessary to invite foreign experts.
“The situation in the metro was difficult. We had to invite specialists from outside because there is a big problem with qualified personnel in the country,” Kaladze said.
The mayor noted that the ceiling of the station, which partially collapsed in the past, had reached a critical condition. It was scanned with special equipment and reinforcement works were carried out to ensure it could withstand all types of pressure. Kaladze assured that the rehabilitation works will be fully completed by the end of 2025.
In addition, Kaladze spoke about broader modernization plans for Tbilisi’s metro system. He emphasized that:
A wagon replacement project is already underway, with new trains expected to arrive starting from 2026.
- The city has completely replaced power cables and renovated power system units.
- The next stage will focus on the rehabilitation of metro stations.
Kaladze stressed that international tenders have been announced to ensure experienced foreign companies participate in the projects.
“We have a serious problem in this regard in Georgia, we do not have the necessary qualified personnel and companies. That is why foreign experts are actively involved,” he added.
