Iran-based news agency IRNA reported on Sunday that the construction of the Istoqlol tunnel, linking the Tajik capital to the country's second-largest city, Khujand, is nearing completion, noting that the finalization of the project is scheduled to be held before the 32nd anniversary of Independence Day of Tajikistan. 

The construction of the tunnel, which is also named the Anzob Tunnel or Ushtur Tunnel, is being handled by the Iranian company Farab Group. 

Farab had previously collaborated with another Iranian company named Saber International on the project.

Read more: Tehran to increase energy supplies after ascending to SCO membership

The tunnel is situated at a distance of 80 km northwest of Dushanbe, Tajikistan's capital city. 

The Tajik Ministry of Transport said that the construction of the tunnel would be completed before Independence Day which is celebrated every year on September 9 since 1991, the year Tajikistan declared its independence from the former Soviet Union. 

The ministry said that the construction of the tunnel was initially projected to be completed in November 2022. However, due to financial reasons, the completion date had to be rescheduled. 

Read more: Raisi stresses on cooperation to promote development, security in SCO