Iran has officially launched the Rasht-Caspian railway line in Gilan Province, on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, Report informs via Iranian media.
This strategic railway forms a crucial part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
According to a statement released by the Iranian government, the inauguration ceremony was attended by Mohammad Mokhber, who is currently serving as the acting President of Iran.
Spanning a distance of 37 kilometers, the Rasht-Caspian railway connects Iran's southern and northern ports, serving as a vital link between the Caspian Sea and the Persian and Oman Gulfs. This railway is expected to significantly boost trade and connectivity in the region.
The section from Rasht city to Caspian port marks the initial phase of the Rasht-Astara railway construction project. Plans involve extending the railway from Caspian port to the city of Astara in northwestern Iran.
The INSTC is a multi-modal transportation network that aims to connect India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia, and Europe. It is designed to enhance trade and reduce transit time between these regions. The Rasht-Caspian railway is a key component of this ambitious project, which is expected to cut transportation costs by 30% and travel time by 40% once fully operational.