Cutting of Georgia’s longest tunnel at Russia-Georgia border complete

The cutting of the nine-kilometer Kveshetii-Kobi tunnel, near Russia-Georgia border, has been completed. This tunnel, now the longest in Georgia, stretches nine kilometers with a diameter of 15 meters, with opponents raising security concerns. 

As part of the Kusheti-Kobi project, the Department of Highways is constructing a 23-kilometer, two-lane asphalt-concrete road equipped with lighting. The project also includes the construction of five bridges, five tunnels, and the rehabilitation of one bridge. Additionally, plans are in place for a new five-kilometer road to Gudauri and a tourist center.

Funding for the project comes from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), totaling 1.2 billion GEL. The completion of the 23-kilometer road is expected in stages between 2024 and 2025.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, attending the tunnel cutting ceremony, emphasized the project’s importance in economic, transit, and social aspects. He noted that upon completion, travel time will be reduced by 45 minutes and the road will be safer, especially during inclement weather.

The construction of the Kobi road faced opposition in 2020 from local residents, art experts, archaeologists, biodiversity experts, and environmentalists. Concerns centered around the section of the Kvesheti-Kobi road leading to Russia through the Khada Gorge.