Moscow eyes faster progress on strategic North–South railway project

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk has said that the Rasht–Astara railway line is a key element of the expanded North–South Transport Corridor, stressing Russia’s interest in advancing the project as part of broader regional connectivity plans.

Speaking to journalists in Zangilan, Overchuk stated that Russia is interested in constructing a new railway line within the framework of the international transport corridor, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

He said the Rasht–Astara railway line is an important component of the expanded North–South Corridor, which connects Iranian ports with Russian ports.

“Before the start of the war [in the Middle East], active work was underway; land was being acquired for railway construction, and by March most of this process had already been completed. Russian companies have already begun topographic and geodetic work and have established the necessary geodetic network for construction. Actual construction work had begun. As soon as conditions allow, these works will resume,” he noted.

Overchuk added that the Russian delegation had reviewed the region’s modern road and railway infrastructure and described it as highly developed. “We saw that the road network has in fact been formed, and a significant part of the railway line toward Meghri (Armenia) is already ready,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of the Aghband bridge in ensuring transport connectivity, noting that it links key routes including directions to Iran, Nakhchivan, and Türkiye.

Overchuk further stated that Russia is interested in the rapid commissioning of the infrastructure. “The conditions created here are particularly convenient for carriers, including Russian ones. This will allow for more efficient organization of freight transportation and bring mutual benefits to all participating countries,” the deputy prime minister said.

By Vafa Guliyeva