Results and Problems of Realization of the Potential of the Baikal–Amur Mainline

The article discusses the stages and priorities of modernization of the Baikal–Amur Mainline (BAM) and current problems of its operation and development. The composition of the mainline’s zone of influence has been clarified: (1) subzone of direct influence, consisting of head, middle, and end sections; (2) subzone of indirect influence. It is shown that as a result of population outflow in the post-Soviet period, the population in the BAM zone returned to the level of half a century ago and economic development was suspended until the early 2010s. Despite the intensification of industrial development in the BAM zone over the past 10–15 years, its demographic potential continues to decline. Proposed transport and logistics schemes for the export of bulk cargo are considered, which could reduce the load on the BAM and Trans-Siberian Railway. According to the author, all of them are less promising compared to the intensification of the use of these mainlines.