Tirana’s Great Ring Road opens in full to ease city congestion

TIRANA, Dec 30 – The final stretch of Tirana’s Great Ring Road has officially opened, completing a 28.7-kilometer project that aims to ease traffic and spur economic growth in Albania’s capital.

Prime Minister Edi Rama and Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, also the Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, attended the inauguration. The road connects Tirana to all national highways, offering faster journeys and new opportunities for development.

Speaking at the event, Balluku described the project as transformative. “We relocated over 654 buildings to make this vision a reality. Now, it’s fully operational, with only minor details to be finalized by January.”

A new era for urban transport

The Great Ring Road is Albania’s largest infrastructure undertaking in Tirana, designed to meet “Category A” standards. The highway includes urban features such as lighting, landscaped green spaces, and multi-level intersections.

The newly opened northern section comprises seven segments, featuring a 420-meter viaduct, two bridges spanning the Tirana River, and four interchanges. Additionally, the project incorporates the Tirana-Durrës railway line and a link to Rinas Airport, enhancing overall connectivity.

Balluku emphasized that the upgrades required significant logistical efforts, including relocating power lines and water systems.

Economic boost alongside smoother commutes

The road is expected to reduce traffic congestion, cut travel times, and increase property values. Real estate prices along the route have doubled to €1,200 per square meter, up from €600 before construction began.

“This is more than a road; it’s a key milestone for Tirana’s growth and modernization,” Balluku said.