Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At a recent plenary session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, the draft law "On Railway Transport" was reviewed for the second reading, aimed at regulating relationships within the sector.

The bill is designed to create a competitive environment, attract the private sector to the railway industry, and eliminate monopoly practices. It also outlines the rights and responsibilities of carriers and wagon (container) operators.

The project aims to further develop passenger transport, establish a legal framework for public-private partnerships, increase investment attraction, and stimulate the private sector to improve service quality. It envisions the implementation of projects based on public-private partnerships.

To support citizens in need of social protection, the project sets out preferential travel conditions and defines the rights and responsibilities of passengers on railway transport.

Infrastructure objects of general use will remain state-owned. However, railway stations and wagons will be handed over to private partners for construction, modernization, and management under public-private partnership agreements.

Deputies are confident that the adoption of the bill will contribute to the regulation and improvement of railway transport management, creation of a competitive environment, enhancement of transportation quality, reduction in prices, meeting the needs for safe passenger and cargo transport, and attracting foreign investments.

The discussion of the project will continue at the next plenary session.