Joint protocol on tri-nation rail link signed

Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan on Tuesday finalized a joint protocol for a significant railway project aimed at connecting Uzbekistan's train network with Pakistan Railways (PR).

The proposed route will traverse Uzbekistan's Termiz, Afghanistan's Mazar-e-Sharif and Logar, and enter Pakistan through the Kharlachi border crossing in Kurram.

The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique, Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, and other high-ranking officials from the three countries.

Rafique emphasized the significance of the project, calling it a historic day for regional connectivity and trade facilitation.

Highlighting the benefits of the railway project, the minister explained its potential to enhance regional, transit, and bilateral trade, fostering stronger connections between the people of the region.

The railway line will cater to both passenger and freight services, playing a vital role in boosting regional trade and driving economic development.

The finalization of the route came after a productive meeting of the trilateral working group in Islamabad, attended by representatives from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Uzbekistan.

The three parties agreed on a roadmap for conducting technical studies, identifying financing sources, and addressing other essential aspects to expedite the project's implementation.

Uzbekistan anticipates that the 760-km rail line will significantly reduce delivery times for cargo between Uzbekistan and Pakistan by approximately five days, while also reducing transportation costs by at least 40%.

The project aims to be completed by the end of 2027, with a projected capacity to transport up to 15 million tons of goods annually by 2030.

Furthermore, the three countries have already signed a strategic roadmap plan for constructing a new 573-km Trans-Afghan railway, connecting Central Asia to Arabian Sea ports.

This plan includes joint expeditions to survey the route and conduct preliminary feasibility studies for the project, fostering future collaboration and expanding regional transportation networks.

The railway project holds tremendous potential for strengthening regional connectivity, promoting trade, and fostering closer ties between Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan.

With input from agencies