Sustainability report

2023

Sustainability report

Message from the Chairman

Dear Stakeholders,

For the first time in the history of Azerbaijan Railways (ADY), a Sustainability Report will be published this year. Appreciation is extended to Deloitte for their exemplary cooperation in preparing this report. Reports of this nature reflect a strong commitment to transparency and accountability. With President Ilham Aliyev declaring this year as the “Year of Solidarity for a Green World” and Azerbaijan preparing to host COP-29, sustainability has emerged as a guiding principle for both national and international activities.

Sustainability, which encompasses environmental, social, and economic dimensions, is gaining importance in global discussions. For the railway sector, it involves adopting practices that reduce environmental impact, enhance social responsibility, and promote long-term economic viability. Sustainability is a priority not only for governments but also for businesses, including Azerbaijan Railways.

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Significant progress has been made toward sustainability at ADY. Key achievements include reducing carbon emissions, electrifying railway infrastructure, expanding the fleet of electric trains, and transitioning to alternative energy sources. Continuous investments in advanced technologies are being made to support cleaner, more efficient operations. Partnerships with stakeholders are being strengthened to promote sustainable practices across the railway industry.
 

Azerbaijan’s role in hosting COP-29 this year marks a significant milestone in the sustainability journey. In alignment with the preparation for this event, ADY has focused activities on sustainability goals, demonstrating a national commitment to combating climate change. Sustainability is one of ADY’s core values, and efforts are being made to ensure that these principles are fully integrated into daily operations.
 

An example of environmental responsibility is the installation of solar panels at the Bilajari and Ganja locomotive depots, generating 79,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity and saving over 8,000 cubic meters of natural gas. Electrified infrastructure is prioritized in the construction of new railway lines, biodiversity is protected in areas along railway routes, and wastewater recycling initiatives are in place to reduce environmental
impact.
Digitalization has played a key role in supporting sustainability efforts. Since 2023, ADY has eliminated the use of paper tickets for suburban routes, offering digital ticketing through a mobile application, website, and hotline. This move has significantly reduced paper usage and carbon emissions. Additionally, digital projects, such as the Freight Digitalization and Middle Corridor Digitalization Projects, have streamlined operations and increased efficiency, all while contributing to sustainability objectives.
 

Inclusivity remains a fundamental aspect of the sustainability strategy. Equal travel opportunities are provided for passengers with physical challenges. Railway stations have been equipped with tactile paving, elevators, escalators, and Braille signage to improve accessibility.
 

It is understood that lasting change can only be achieved through public participation and clear communication.
ADY remains committed to implementing comprehensive sustainability strategies that not only enhance operations but also build strong relationships with stakeholders, ensuring a more sustainable future.
 

Rovshan Rustamov

Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC

ADY at a glance

Revenue

Revenue

+480 million AZN

Next year, on pace to obtain

Next year, on pace to obtain

ISO 9001

Reduction in water consumption

Reduction in water consumption

23%

Employees

Employees

13.000+

Reduction in carbon footprint

Reduction in carbon footprint

12%

Countries in collaboration

Countries in collaboration

8

Traning hours

Traning hours

40.000+

Electricfield trains and locomotives

Electricfield trains and locomotives

119

Electric route coverage

Electric route coverage

56%

LTI frequency rate

LTI frequency rate

0%

Report 2023