The main line of the Iteya–Robe (IR) road upgrade project in Ethiopia, constructed by China Railway No. 3 Engineering Group, officially opened to traffic on December 31, 2025.

The project is a key transport artery linking Asala, a major agricultural production area in the Oromia region, with Adama, an important agricultural processing city. The upgraded road spans 75.6 kilometers. China Railway No. 3 Engineering Group was responsible for renovating the existing pavement along the entire route, as well as building roadbeds, bridges and culverts, urban ancillary facilities, and drainage systems.

With the main line now open, travel time between Robe and Adama has been cut from around six hours to just 1.5 hours. The improved connectivity is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of agricultural product transportation, boost agricultural income, and improve the livelihoods of local farmers.