Russia eyes rail link to India as Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten trade
The proposal could create an overland freight corridor connecting Russia with India through a network of countries including Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Russia is exploring the possibility of constructing a direct rail link to the Indian Ocean to lessen its dependence on vulnerable maritime routes like the Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz, as reported by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin. The proposed overland freight corridor would traverse a network of nations, including Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, with the potential to bring Russian goods closer to India.
Khusnullin emphasized that Moscow should investigate various options for establishing rail connectivity with the Indian Ocean, highlighting routes through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan as viable alternatives to existing maritime corridors. The proposal aims to provide a direct overland route from Russia to India while mitigating risks associated with disruptions in key maritime chokepoints, such as the Strait of Hormuz.
The maritime route has been affected by ongoing military tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which has led to restrictions on shipping through the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial energy chokepoint, responsible for carrying a significant share of global oil and LNG shipments. Any prolonged disruption could have repercussions on global energy prices and international supply chains.
Khusnullin's proposal could potentially bolster Russia-India trade by offering an alternative to sea routes and reducing transportation risks linked to the Bosphorus. However, constructing such a corridor would entail significant infrastructure, financing, and geopolitical challenges, particularly due to the security situation in Afghanistan and the intricate regional relationships among the involved countries.
Despite the hurdles, the development of a rail connection to the Indian Ocean would enhance Russia's efforts to diversify its trade infrastructure, minimize dependence on maritime chokepoints, and strengthen economic ties with Central and South Asian nations.
Written by urgent.news from Live Mint's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
