Automobile transport plays an important role in the socio-economic development of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. In 1920–1991, this sector developed gradually, becoming an integral part of the economic and social life of the region.
In the early years of Soviet rule, automobile transport was poorly developed, the car park was limited and served mainly administrative needs. Road infrastructure was insufficient and most of the roads were dirt. However, as a result of the collectivization and industrialization policies, the need arose to strengthen relations between villages and cities. During this period, main road lines were laid, the number of cars increased, freight and passenger transportation expanded, and regular transport connections were established between the city of Nakhchivan and the regions.
At a later stage, the construction of asphalt roads accelerated, new routes were opened, and bus parks were created. Automobile transport became the main means of transporting agricultural products. In general, during 1920–1991, automobile transport developed from a primitive state, transformed into a transport system, and had a significant impact on the economic development of the region.
After 1991, the importance of road transport increased even more.
In this situation, Nakhchivan's relations with Turkey and Iran expanded, and trade and passenger transportation were mainly carried out via roads. During the period of independence, the construction of new roads and the renovation of existing infrastructure allowed for more efficient use of road transport.
In the complex socio-political situation that arose in Nakhchivan in 1991, the activities of Heydar Aliyev acquired special importance. Under his leadership, stability was ensured in the region, defense measures were strengthened, and transport relations with Turkey were established. This created conditions for the development of road transport in an international direction.
The interruption of land connections between Nakhchivan and the main part of Azerbaijan as a result of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict had a serious impact on the transport system. The operation of railway lines stopped, and the main burden of freight and passenger transportation fell on road transport. The region was able to continue its foreign relations only through Turkey and Iran.
Although the transport system faced serious difficulties in 1991–2000, road transport ensured the sustainability of the economic and social life of the region.
Currently, road transport in Nakhchivan is the main transport system providing connections between cities and regions. Transportation in the Nakhchivan-Baku direction is mainly carried out through the territory of Iran. Domestic passenger transportation is organized by buses and minibuses on various routes.
Road transport is an important type of transport for passenger and freight transportation, and includes passenger cars, buses, trucks and special purpose vehicles. This area is regulated in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Passenger transportation is carried out in intra-city, inter-city, regular, irregular and on-demand forms. Freight transportation plays an important role in the activities of such sectors as industry, agriculture, construction, trade and energy.
In general, road transport is of irreplaceable importance in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic from an economic, social, and strategic perspective, and the geographical location of the region further enhances this importance.