The Tbilisi Metro, the first metro system in the Caucasus and the fourth to open in the former Soviet Union, began operation in 1966 after construction works that started in 1952. Conceived to address the city’s rapid growth, challenging topography, and increasing transport needs, its first section opened with six stations. Over subsequent decades, the network expanded to two lines and more than 20 stations, becoming a key component of Tbilisi’s public transport system and serving hundreds of thousands of passengers daily. Like many Soviet-era systems, it features deep underground structures and distinctive architectural elements.
Today, after nearly six decades of continuous operation, the metro is undergoing one of the most significant modernisation programmes in its history, involving rolling stock renewal, station upgrades, climate‑resilience improvements, and the rehabilitation of depots and tunnels. The programme is jointly supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the AIIB, the Green Climate Fund, and state co‑financing.
EBRD has provided a €50.6 million sovereign loan to rehabilitate and upgrade up to 12 metro stations, including new lighting and ventilation systems, energy‑efficient escalators, major overhaul of drainage systems, infrastructure upgrades to reduce maintenance downtime, and the development of an asset‑management plan to improve efficiency and increase non‑fare revenues.
In this context, IRD Engineering, as part of a Joint Venture led by Ardanuy Ingeniería S.A., has signed a new contract to provide consulting services for the conceptual design and procurement support for these 12 metro stations, contributing directly to the modernization of the city’s metro network.
With a contract value exceeding €4.2 million, the Joint Venture will undertake conceptual and preliminary design, technical and environmental studies, procurement and tendering support, and environmental and social compliance.
This contract represents another important step in strengthening IRD Engineering’s presence in Georgia and reinforces our expanding footprint across the Caucasus region, where we continue to support strategic infrastructure developments.
Through this project, we are proud to contribute to the development of a more sustainable, inclusive, and efficient urban transport system. Together with our partners, we look forward to delivering impactful results for the city of Tbilisi.