Iran to establish rail connections with Tajikistan and Turkmenistan

Iran is laying the groundwork to launch new rail services to the cities of Merv in Turkmenistan and Dushanbe in Tajikistan, as part of efforts to deepen its ties with Central Asian neighbours, according to Jabbar Ali Zakeri, Director General of the National Railway Company of Iran (RAJA).

Iranian media reports that these upcoming international routes are key components of Iran’s broader strategy to modernise its transport infrastructure and enhance regional integration, per Caliber.Az.

“Following a five-year suspension, the Tehran–Van (Türkiye) rail line has now resumed service, and we are currently preparing to establish rail links with Merv and Dushanbe,” Zakeri said.

While no specific launch date has been announced for the rail connection to Central Asia, Iranian authorities are moving forward with plans to expand regional connectivity.

In addition, Zakeri revealed that two more international rail lines are set to be launched soon, expanding access to Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Central Asian states. One route will link Tehran with Ankara and is scheduled to begin operation within two months. The second, connecting Tehran with Herat in Afghanistan, is expected to be operational by the end of the following month.

These routes aim to create new opportunities for both passenger and cargo transportation, and also facilitate strategic trade and investment initiatives. A major feature of this expansion is the promotion of tourism through specially designed tourist trains.

“Iran’s railway network is not only a vital mode of transport but also a gateway to our historical and cultural heritage,” Zakeri said. “Harnessing this potential can bring substantial income and create new employment opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors.”

Zakeri also addressed a persistent challenge in Iran’s railway sector: the mismatch between the pace of railway expansion and the state of rolling stock. Although Iran builds between 150 and 300 kilometers of new railway lines annually, the passenger and freight car fleet requires significant upgrades. This year, 300 new passenger cars are set to be delivered domestically, and an agreement has been signed with China to supply additional cars.

Currently, Iran and Tajikistan are already connected by air. Direct flights operate between Tehran and Dushanbe via Somon Air and Varesh Airline, with the Iranian carrier also offering flights between Mashhad and Dushanbe.

By Tamilla Hasanova