Russia is creating an integrated checkpoint system on the border with Azerbaijan

The Federal State Institution of Russia, known as “Rosgranstroy,” has recently announced plans to establish an integrated checkpoint system (ICS) along the state border shared by the Russian Federation and Azerbaijan, according to Azerbaijan in Focus, reporting Turan. This initiative is set to be implemented at the multilateral automobile checkpoint (MACP) Yarag-Kazmalyar, situated in the Dagestan region.

The primary objective of creating this integrated checkpoint system is to streamline and automate the process of data collection when vehicles pass through the MACP. This automation is expected to result in significant cost savings by simplifying the exchange of information between relevant authorities. The ISP will be responsible for collecting, processing, analyzing, and storing various data types, including photographic materials, vehicle license plate information, cargo vehicle (KV) weight and size data, as well as control results data, as outlined in the technical task.

As part of the broader reconstruction efforts at the Yarag-Kazmalyar automobile checkpoint, five new traffic lanes dedicated to freight transport have already been put into operation. In total, including these new lanes, there are now 16 traffic lanes available at the checkpoint, with 10 designated for trucks and 6 for passenger vehicles. Currently, due to COVID-19 restrictions, passenger traffic with Azerbaijan is temporarily suspended, and only cargo transport is being processed.

Before the reconstruction, the checkpoint only provided 5 lanes for heavy trucks, but this number has now doubled. The expansion and improvements carried out have successfully alleviated congestion at the entrance to the checkpoint.

The overall progress of the border crossing infrastructure is nearing completion, with close monitoring by the Ministry of Transport of Russia and Rosgranstroy. The construction readiness stands at an impressive 88%. During the course of the project, approximately 30 buildings and structures have been newly constructed or upgraded, and ongoing work involves the installation of equipment and landscaping, with approximately 110 individuals actively involved in the project.

Following the completion of the reconstruction, a total of 22 traffic lanes will be operational at the Yarag-Kazmalyar checkpoint, including 10 for trucks, 10 for cars, and 2 for buses. This expansion represents nearly a twofold increase compared to the pre-modernization setup. Consequently, the capacity of the Yarag-Kazmalyar checkpoint is anticipated to grow by 3.5 times, with the potential to accommodate almost 2000 vehicles per day, up from the current capacity of 1400.

This infrastructure modernization is expected to provide more comfortable and efficient conditions for border crossings and is poised to stimulate the development of the international transport corridor known as the “North-South” route.