Iran's Chabahar-Zahedan Railway Nears Completion, Enhancing Regional Connectivity

IRAN, January 2026 — The Chabahar–Zahedan railway represents a significant infrastructure development aimed at bolstering Iran's logistical capabilities and its role within broader Asian transit networks. This 634-kilometer line is designed to integrate Iran's sole oceanic port, Chabahar, directly into the national rail system, enhancing its strategic importance as a gateway.

With substructure work approximately 96% complete and track-laying surpassing 75%, the project is advancing rapidly. The construction involves substantial engineering feats, including numerous tunnels and bridges, alongside extensive earthworks, with a significant portion of materials, such as over 90,000 tons of rails, sourced domestically.

Upon completion, this railway is anticipated to unlock new transit routes for cargo originating from Central Asian nations, Afghanistan, and the Indian subcontinent, providing direct access to international waters. This development is expected to offer a more cost-effective and secure alternative to existing road transport systems.

The project, initiated in 2010 and estimated at $1.5 billion, is slated for completion by the end of 2026, with operations expected to commence by June 2027. The extensive involvement of domestic engineers and contractors underscores Iran's capacity for executing large-scale national infrastructure initiatives.

This strategic rail link is poised to significantly increase Iran's rail transit capacity, ease pressure on its road network, and reinforce Chabahar's position as a vital maritime trade hub, contributing to regional economic development and connectivity.

Source: WANA News Agency