The Roads Department of Georgia says there are no plans to convert highways into toll roads, responding to recent media reports and public speculation about possible changes to the East–West highway, including the Rikoti corridor.
In an official statement, the agency clarified that neither the Rikoti section nor any other international or domestic road is being considered for a paid usage regime. It emphasized that the accelerated rehabilitation of the Gomi–Sachkhere–Chiatura–Zestaponi road is solely aimed at ensuring timely and high-quality completion of the project, and should not be interpreted as a step toward introducing tolls or assigning an alternative commercial function.
The department added that road accessibility for the public remains free of charge and that no policy changes are currently on the agenda. It also stressed that infrastructure development will continue without imposing additional financial burdens on citizens, while encouraging media outlets to verify official positions when reporting on sensitive topics.
At the same time, the Transport Corridor Research Center (TCRC) has called for a clear national strategy on toll roads, saying that any future discussions on road pricing must be based on comprehensive analysis and public consultation, given the country’s socio-economic conditions.
