The slope stabilisation works were ongoing at the kilometre 149 section of Rikoti Pass.

“There are intensive works on the slope near the [section], where a potential landslide centre was discovered in 2023. Relevant studies were conducted, an engineering solution was prepared, a detour was arranged, and a tender identified a qualified contractor who is currently performing a very large-scale work. Excavation of earth masses is currently underway, which involved developing the slope with a stairway system”, - said Irakli Karseladze, the Minister of Infrastructure.

Once this is done, the slope will be strengthened as per project requirements.

Following the completion of the slope stabilisation work, a new road will be constructed, which will be used for traffic diversion. Construction of bridges and other infrastructure for the road will then commence on the existing one.

Two of the three tunnels on the Chumateleti-Khevi section of the project had already been cut and 11 of 17 bridges built.

It should be mentioned that the Chumateleti-Khevi section was geologically the most challenging part of the Pass, where a major effort was on stabilisation of the slopes with “appropriate design and engineering solutions”.