Tehran: The long-anticipated Chabahar–Zahedan railway line is set to be completed and operational by the end of this year, marking a major step forward in Iran’s efforts to expand trade and transit infrastructure. The announcement was made by Mansour Bijar, Governor of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, during the ECO Interior Ministers’ Meeting in Tehran.
Bijar said the project would transform south-eastern Iran into a strategic trade hub, leveraging the province’s geographical position. “Sistan and Baluchestan is Iran’s largest province and shares long borders with both Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Afghan border provides the shortest access to Chabahar Port, which is crucial for Afghan traders,” he noted.
He explained that the new railway is a key component of Iran’s broader plan to develop its coastal and North–South trade corridors, improving domestic connectivity and boosting regional integration. The province currently has three official border crossings with Pakistan and one with Afghanistan at Milak, along with several local trade points vital for border communities.
Highlighting Iran’s focus on inclusive regional development, Bijar stressed that trade projects must also uplift local livelihoods. He pointed out that four border markets are currently active between Iran and Afghanistan, while two major free trade zones, in Chabahar and Sistan, have been revitalised. “The administrative challenges in the Chabahar Free Zone have been resolved, and the Sistan Free Zone has resumed operations with new companies beginning work,” he said.
Bijar also cited the province’s growing trade and transport links with Oman and Pakistan. Maritime services between Chabahar and Muscat now operate twice a week, and discussions are underway to establish a direct flight between Zahedan and Karachi.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s role as a key supplier, he said, “Pakistan has substantial capacity to meet Iran’s needs for essential goods. During recent shortages of rice and red meat, and even amid the 12-day conflict involving the Zionist regime, imports from Pakistan helped stabilize supplies.”
Bijar further noted that the completion of the railway would enable Central Asian countries to use Chabahar Port as their most direct outlet to international waters. “Once operational, the Chabahar–Zahedan line will link the port to Iran’s national rail network, creating a seamless trade corridor from the Indian Ocean to Central Asia,” he added.
Emphasising shared linguistic and cultural ties with Afghanistan and Pakistan, the governor said these affinities would foster stronger cooperation. “We aim to build on our cultural bonds to advance trade, development, and prosperity across the region,” he concluded.
With the railway nearing completion, the revival of free trade zones, and expanding transport links, Sistan and Baluchestan is poised to become a key gateway for regional commerce and integration.
