The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is accelerating the implementation of railway projects

The Ministry of Public Works of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA, the self-designation of the country by the Taliban) announced plans to accelerate the implementation of several railway projects aimed at turning the country into a key transit hub in Central and South Asia. It is reported by Ariana News.

According to Ministry spokesman Mohammad Ashraf Khakshenas, survey work is currently underway on critical railway routes, including the Herat—Kandahar line, as well as extensions of railway lines in Balkh, Paktia and Torgund.

These initiatives are part of a larger plan to connect Afghanistan's main border crossings with a single railway system, which will greatly simplify trade, increase mobility and stimulate economic growth.

The country's private sector has expressed strong support for railway expansion projects, highlighting their potential to increase exports, increase national incomes and attract foreign investment.

The business community believes that the completion of these projects will be an important step in integrating Afghanistan into regional supply chains and improving internal logistics.

Construction work is already underway on the third stage of the Khaf—Herat railway line in the west of the country. This strategic corridor linking Afghanistan with Iran should facilitate both cargo and passenger transportation.

Iranian media reported on the possible imminent launch of a passenger service between Herat and Mashhad. At the same time, preparations have begun for the implementation of the Trans—Afghan Railway Corridor, a strategic project to connect Uzbekistan with Pakistan through Afghanistan. Once completed, it will become an important channel for regional trade, reduce transit time for goods and provide Central Asian countries with access to seaports through access to the sea.

These initiatives are part of Afghanistan's broader strategy to position itself as a regional trade and transit hub connecting Central Asia, South Asia, the Middle East and other regions. The Government attaches particular importance to the development of infrastructure through key routes: the Lapis Lazuli Route, the Chabahar Corridor and The Trans-Afghan Railway.