Starting September 15, the travel time for trains in the Khirdalan–Baku direction will be reduced.
This was reported to “Elchi” by Azerbaijan Railways (ADY).
It was stated that with the implementation of the new schedule, the travel time for trains will be reduced to 35 minutes.
“Currently, due to the repair of the railway bridge within the framework of infrastructure modernization in the Khirdalan–Bilajari section, the travel time in that direction is 45 minutes. This change will allow passengers to save time and plan their trips more comfortably. Once the bridge restoration is completed, the speed limit in the mentioned direction will be increased further, meaning the travel time in the Baku–Khirdalan direction will return to the previous 26 minutes, and at the same time, passenger transportation on the Khirdalan–Sumgayit line will be restored,” the statement noted.
According to the new schedule, the number of trips on the Baku–Khirdalan–Baku route has been increased from 26 to 32, including an increase of 2 trips during morning hours to account for passenger flow in the Khirdalan direction. Additionally, a 20:30 trip has been added in the Baku–Khirdalan direction. In total, the daily number of suburban train trips has been increased from 90 to 96.
Furthermore, for the convenience of passengers, contactless payment options at turnstiles have been expanded. Currently, in addition to Visa, it is possible to pay for fares via NFC using Mastercard cards as well.
Fare payments via bank cards are now deducted from the account on the day the trip is taken. This approach will serve to make the payment process more convenient and transparent.
To increase electronic payment options, an additional 58 validators for bank card access have been installed at turnstiles at Baku and Sabunchu stations, as well as Pirshagi, Khirdalan, Koroglu, Bakikhanov, Mammadli, and Darnagul stations and stops. This innovation will create conditions for passengers to make wider use of alternative payment methods.
With the aim of further improving travel opportunities, the next stage involves increasing the number of SİMA Pay – facial recognition payment terminals.
The measures being implemented are aimed at raising the level of service in railway transport, increasing passenger comfort, and expanding the application of modern digital solutions.