TIRANA, November 6/ATA/ – The Tirana bypass is considered a strategic road infrastructure hub. It will connect the routes of the “Blue Corridor”—as well as Tirana–Durrës and Tirana–Elbasan motorways—allowing traffic to bypass the city center.
Accompanied by Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Enea Karakaçi, Prime Minister Edi Rama inspected the construction site today, where work is progressing rapidly.
The prime minister noted that property values in the area have risen significantly, while assuring that all expropriations will be handled properly, with full transparency and in accordance with the law.
Rama stated that this route will relieve the capital of excessive traffic congestion. “Currently, there is a forced burden on the city because this route is missing, leaving everyone with no choice, but to enter Tirana. With this bypass, a portion of the traffic flow can move freely toward the south or southeast—depending on the destination—while those entering or leaving the city will also experience much better traffic flow,” said Rama.
On his part, Minister Karakaçi highlighted the importance of Tirana bypass in connecting Durrës–Tirana motorway with Tirana–Elbasan motorway.
“Property prices in the area are rising. The project helps local communities and boosts the economy. It links the Kashar junction to the TEG area, letting drivers bypass Tirana,” Karakaçi stated.
The minister noted that the first 10 kilometers of Tirana bypass have been financed and contracted by the Albanian Road Authority. “Construction is progressing well; about 50% of the work on the two contracted sections has been completed. Meanwhile, the remaining 11-kilometer stretch—part of the total 21-kilometer route—is being financed by the EBRD. We have also secured a grant covering approximately 40% of the cost—amounting to 53 million euros—through the Western Balkans Investment Framework,” Karakaçi added.
According to the minister, the project is highly integrated, because it involves not only the construction of a Category A motorway, but also the provision of connections to all surrounding villages and administrative units.
Meanwhile, Director of the Albanian Road Authority Ami Kozeli said that the first two sections (lots) of the Tirana Bypass are scheduled for completion in September 2027.
Spanning 21 kilometers, this infrastructure project will contribute significantly to easing traffic congestion, reducing travel times and improving the flow of vehicles. /m.m/r.e/p.s./
