Chabahar to Zahedan Railway

Objective

The railway is a crucial part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). For India, this route represents a chance for freight traffic to obtain a water/land connection to Russia, bypassing Pakistan. The railroad also has strategic military significance for Iran.

Description

The rail line is to connect the port of Chahbahar, which is located on the Indian Ocean, to the country's rail network via Zahedan - from 2021 according to the original plans. The port is the only deep-water port in Iran that has direct access to the Indian Ocean without ships having to pass through the narrow Strait of Hormuz.

History

Iran proceeded independently using its own funds after dropping India from the project due to delays in funding and international sanctions complexities. Construction of the railway commenced in 2010.

Finance