A 1,800-metre-long tunnel dug during ongoing works on Rikoti Pass, a major crossing between eastern and western parts of Georgia, is the longest found across the country.

According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, the new tunnel was cut parallel to an existing one on the Pass, which is part of the East-West International Highway.

“A large part of the final works of the new tunnel has been completed - the cover will be arranged, the installation of engineering and electrical networks will be completed, after which the tunnel will be opened for traffic. Works were underway on 33 slopes on the Chumateleti - Khevi section of the Highway, while tenders had been opened for works for the stabilisation of a potential landslide area identified as a result of monitoring on the km 149 section.

Efforts were underway to remove the special traffic mode introduced in April due to a threat of landslide on section in the near future”, - said the Infrastructure Minister Irakli Karseladze.

According to the Ministry, 50 out of 51 tunnels required for the ongoing works had been dug and 83 out of 97 bridges built. Traffic had already been opened on the 27-km, 4-lane section from Khevi village to Shorapani town.

The section includes 65 bridges and 38 tunnels that have reduced travel distance by eight kilometres and travel time by 25 minutes. Over 60% - or 261 km - of the East-West Highway has been opened for traffic, while construction continues on the remaining 81 km, which is due to be completed next year.