OREANDA-NEWS. May 13, 2010. The project workgroup says that the invitation for primary assessment was announced for design, provision and installation of 25 KV system, including substations, energy supply and overhead contact network – provision and installation by two stages (power supply system).

The interested companies should have sufficient potential and knowledge. They can receive full list of documents after payment of AZN 150 (or \\$188) to the Azerbaijan State Railway Company’s (ADDY) Executive Group.

Deadline for applications: 25 June 2010.

Add: 230, Dilara Aliyeva.

Tel: +99 412 499 63 95

e-mail: nq@addy.gov.az;  nahmadova@addy.gov.az.

WBG Board of Directors endorsed the USD450 million loan for Rail Trade and Transport Facilitation Project that has become the WBG biggest one since 1995 when WBG opened financing for Azerbaijan. The loan will be disbursed through International Bank of Reconstruction & Development (IBRD) for 17-year period with 4-year grace term.

The project aims to improve railway services in Azerbaijan, as well as the competitiveness, financial sustainability, operating and cost efficiency, and capacity of Azerbaijan Railway - ADDY- in particular along the transport corridor toward Georgia (east-west corridor). 90% of the \\$795 million loan project will be directed for transport and 10% for industry and trade.

In spring 2008 ADDY chief engineer Gurban Nazirov said that ADDY would have to upgrade its locomotive fleet by buying 50 locomotives as the project stipulates transfer to alternating current when supplying power for Baku – Beyuk Kesik railway line.

Whole documentation on the Project, including the final protocol of negotiations and the draft loan agreement, have been submitted for consideration of the President’s Executive Office.

After their approval the President’s Office will empower signing of the agreement with WBG.

Not expecting legalization of the Project, it was announced a tender procedure for technical consultant to replace power base along Baku-Beyuk Kesik railway, renew signs system and purchase locomotives for ADDY.