The NERU project, which is helping address urban transport issues and develop eco-friendly infrastructure, has been underway in Dushanbe for a year. During this time, the capital has seen the introduction of paid parking spaces, charging stations, and traffic cameras and radars that monitor road violations. All of these measures are aimed at improving road safety, reducing congestion, and enhancing the urban environment.
The project is being implemented by the company NET Solutions (NETS) under an investment agreement between the Tajikistan government and the private sector.
Funds generated through the project are shared between the government and private partners to cover investments, infrastructure development, equipment maintenance, and more. This model allows the project to expand without additional strain on the national budget.
Paid parking: how has the city changed?
Paid parking has helped organize road space in the capital. The number of improper parking, parking in restricted areas, or parking in spaces designated for people with disabilities has decreased. As a result, public transport moves more freely.
The system also offers subscription options:
- "Sabz" Unlimited Subscriptions — for electric vehicles.
- "Khonai Man" Subscriptions — for residents.
- "Sohibkor" Subscriptions — for business owners.
- Government employee subscriptions.
Importantly, parking is free for emergency services and people with disabilities in the first and second groups.
New, convenient payment methods have been integrated, allowing payment via electronic wallets and banking apps, including Amonatbonk, Eskhata Online, Spitamen, Orionbonk, and others.
Results from cameras and radars over the year
The radar and camera system, introduced as part of the NERU project, operates in real-time. Footage from the cameras is immediately sent to the Situation Center, where traffic police review the recorded violations. If a violation is confirmed, the driver receives an SMS with a link to the video and photos from the scene.
Car owners can create a personal account on the neru.tj website, register their vehicle, and upload necessary documents. All violations are accompanied by photo and video evidence. In case of disputed situations, there is an option to challenge the violation and express disagreement.
According to the project team, the number of recorded violations has decreased by 90% over the year. It’s worth noting that, in addition to NERU, two other traffic monitoring systems operate in the city — Rexgen (focusing on bus stops) and Shahri Bekhatar.
While the systems differ in technical solutions and coverage, together they create a comprehensive approach to traffic rule enforcement in the capital.
Expansion of charging stations and future plans
As part of the NERU project, Dushanbe plans to install 500 electric vehicle charging stations (EVCs). Currently, there are 316 stations in the city, with the remaining stations set to be launched by the end of the year, meeting the project’s goals.
The stations operate on a DC (direct current) standard with capacities of 60 kW and 120 kW. A 60 kW charging station allows two electric vehicles to charge simultaneously within 30 minutes, depending on the vehicles' technical specifications. The 120 kW device offers faster charging, completing the process in just 20 minutes.
In the future, the project is set to expand to other cities and regions, including Khujand, Kulob, Danghara, and Bokhtar.
Special attention is being given to user feedback: the project team regularly responds to inquiries on social media and provides 24/7 support. This ensures quick responses to driver requests and continuous improvements in service quality.
