S4 Highway: Connecting Tbilisi to the Azerbaijan Border
The S4 highway, officially designated as a road of international importance, serves as a critical artery in the Georgian road network. Known commonly as the Tbilisi–Red Bridge route or the Rustavi Highway, this corridor facilitates essential transit between the Georgian capital and the border of Azerbaijan.
Spanning a total distance of 57 kilometers (35 miles), the S4 begins in Tbilisi and travels eastward through the city of Rustavi, eventually terminating at the Red Bridge, the official crossing point into Azerbaijan. Once across the border, the route continues as the M2 highway, leading toward the major Azerbaijani cities of Ganja and Baku.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Total Length: 57 kilometers (35 miles).
- Route: Connects Tbilisi to the Red Bridge (Azerbaijan border).
- International Designations: Part of European routes E60 and E117, and Asian routes AH5 and AH81.
- Key Cities: Passes through Tbilisi and Rustavi.
- Region: Primarily located in the southern Kvemo Kartli region.
Route Infrastructure and Design
The S4 highway varies in its technical specifications depending on the segment. Within the Tbilisi capital region, the road functions as a combination of a city thoroughfare and an expressway featuring 2x3 lanes.
Motorway Upgrades
The section between Ponitchala and Rustavi has been upgraded to a 2x2 motorway, allowing for higher traffic volumes and improved safety. However, the remaining stretch from Rustavi to the Azerbaijan border currently remains a two-lane road.
To address this disparity, international funds have been secured to upgrade the southern portion of the S4. These planned improvements include realigning the route and expanding the road to a full 2x2 motorway to ensure a consistent flow of international traffic.
International Connectivity
Because of its strategic location, the S4 is integrated into several major international transport networks. It forms part of the European E60 and Asian AH5 between the S9 Tbilisi Bypass and the Red Bridge. Additionally, it aligns with the European E117 within Tbilisi up to the S6 highway junction, and follows the Asian AH81 between the S6 and S9 junctions.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | S4 (Road of International Importance) |
| Start Point | Tbilisi, Georgia |
| End Point | Red Bridge (Azerbaijan Border) |
| Total Distance | 57 km (35 mi) |
| Municipalities Served | Tbilisi, Gardabani, Rustavi, Marneuli |
| Connecting Route (Azerbaijan) | M2 Highway |
Major Junctions and Intersections
The highway is marked by several key intersections that facilitate regional travel:
- Kilometer 8: Access to Sadakhlo.
- Kilometer 20: Entry into Rustavi.
- Kilometer 45: Junction with Sh163 leading to Algeti and Marneuli.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the S4 highway end?
The S4 highway ends at the Red Bridge, which serves as the border crossing between Georgia and Azerbaijan.
Which international routes are integrated into the S4?
The S4 is part of the European E60 and E117, as well as the Asian AH5 and AH81 networks.
What is the current condition of the road south of Rustavi?
The section south of Rustavi is currently a two-lane road, though international funding has been raised to upgrade it to a 2x2 motorway and realign the route.
What happens to the route after it crosses into Azerbaijan?
After crossing the border at the Red Bridge, the highway continues as the M2, heading toward Ganja and Baku.
Which Georgian municipalities does the S4 pass through?
The highway passes through the municipalities of Tbilisi, Gardabani, Rustavi, and Marneuli.