The Baku–Tbilisi–Kars Railway Line
The Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway line
Built through the cooperation of Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Georgia, the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars (BTK) railway became the strategic link of the Middle Corridor running from Beijing to London, and a key section of the Iron Silk Road stretching from Kazakhstan to Türkiye.
Why the BTK line matters
The BTK acts as a bridge connecting Central Asia with Europe and shaping global rail trade. Sixty countries benefit from the corridor directly or indirectly: through the Iron Silk Road, the Middle Corridor and the Lapis Lazuli Corridor, rail transport reaches Asia, Europe, the Middle East and onwards to Africa.
Routes served by the BTK
Cargo leaving its country of origin travels through Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye all the way to Europe. In the opposite direction, export cargo from Türkiye or Europe reaches China via Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
These shipments are carried in 20’ DC and 40’ DC / 40’ HQ containers; goods are collected at the factory and every step through to the destination is handled under the guarantee of ASR Transit.
The BTK is expected to become a significant alternative to existing routes in the region and to play an important role in China–Europe rail traffic.
Advantages of the BTK line
- Fast and uninterrupted service
- Competitive freight rates
- Reliable transit times
- Full container capability
- Located on the historic Silk Road between China and Europe
Key facts about the line
- Operators: Azerbaijan Railways, Georgian Railway and TCDD (Turkish State Railways)
- Opened: 30 October 2017
- Length: 838.6 km (521.1 mi)
- Track gauge: Russian 1,524 mm (Georgia and Azerbaijan); standard 1,435 mm (Türkiye)
- Operating speed: 120 km/h (75 mph)
ASR Transit offers dependable solutions for cargo moving on the BTK line, ensuring safe and on-time delivery. Contact us for details.