We would like to respond to the story based on unverified and incorrect facts about the construction of the Khulo-Zarzma road by Formula TV

First of all, we would like to point out that it is inccorect that the reconstruction of the Batumi (Angisa) – Akhaltsikhe secondary road has been going on for 8 years. The tender for the construction of Khulo-Zarzma road was announced in 2017, and the works started in 2018. Due to non-fulfillment of contractual obligations, the contract with the construction company was terminated, due to which the works were resumed in early 2021 by a new contractor. The road rehabilitation works are carried out by the winning companies in the international procurement tenders and those agreed with the donor organizations.

The harsh climatic conditions characteristic of the mountainous region limit the implementation of works at an appropriate pace. Currently, rehabilitation-reconstruction works continue, totaling 42 km of the road. The work is divided into two sections. In the first and second sections, at the moment, the arrangement of earth excavation, supporting walls and water-conducting structures is already in the final stage. At the same time, the construction of 4 new bridge crossings is underway. At this stage, 40% of the works on the first section have been completed, and 70% on the second section.

The construction of one section of the road will be completed in 2023, and the construction of the second section will be completed in stages in 2024.

It is also inccorect that the company has already received 90 million GEL. The total cost of the works is 95,689,302 GEL, of which, taking into account the contract and actually performed works, only 45,056,866 GEL has been paid.

In addition, due to difficult terrain and geological conditions, landslides have developed in 17 areas. The study of these areas and design solutions are being developed intensively. A construction tender has already been announced for 8 landslide areas.

Until the end of the project, on the existing road, in order to ensure the passability of road transport, appropriate measures are periodically carried out.

Before preparing the story, the TV company did not verify the information about the project with the Roads Department, we can to say that the purpose of the story, built on distorted facts, was to mislead the public and serve the interests of specific opposition parties.