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Climate challenge, USD 2.3 billion needed to protect infrastructure

2026-02-27 07:33:00, Ekonomi CNA

The Albanian government has considered the transport sector among the most exposed to climate risks, according to the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (NAP) for the period 2026–2036, a strategic document that aims to protect the economy and infrastructure from growing climate risks, in which climate change is already increasing pressure on existing infrastructure.

Floods, landslides and erosion threaten roads and railways, while rising sea levels pose a risk to ports and coastal facilities. Heat waves are also adding to the pressure on aging infrastructure.

Road transport remains the dominant form of movement of people and goods in our country currently, as the railway network has suffered a drastic decline and currently represents less than 1% of passenger traffic.

The plan outlines seven priority measures for transport, with an estimated cost of around $2.3 billion, or 21% of the total budget needed to mitigate climate impacts. These measures focus on regular risk assessments for roads, the use of bio-engineering solutions to prevent floods and landslides, and the development of sustainable urban mobility.

The plan aims not only to protect against climate risks, but also to create a modern transport system and more sustainable economic development. Investments in climate-resilient infrastructure are required, which are expected to increase security, improve connectivity and support economic growth in the long term.

Only 224 kilometers of railway were operational in 2021, with limited services and low speeds. However, new projects such as the Tirana–Durres line with airport connections and proposed projects to Kosovo and Greece aim to revitalize this network and develop low-emission transport.

Maritime transport remains vital for trade, accounting for around 70% of exports and over half of imports. The Port of Durres processes 92% of the country's goods, while the ports of Vlora, Shengjin and Saranda remain strategic points for the further development of the sector.

But, while Albania already has a plan for protection from climate risks, international institutions have pointed out that our country has major problems in implementing strategies and plans in practice.

With this plan, Albania aims to harmonize national priorities with global climate change adaptation objectives, at a time when climate pressure on the economy and infrastructure is becoming increasingly visible./ Monitor Magazine