Translated with AI
Kazakhstan plans to build a 120-kilometer-long Turghundi-Herat railway through Afghanistan within the next two years. Deputy Minister of Transport Maksat Kaliakparov announced this at a government meeting on Tuesday, according to Vlast.kz.
"The financing structure has been developed, and work is underway to attract investment. We plan to complete the project in 2026–2027," he noted.
According to him, the construction of the railway will expand Kazakhstan's export and transit capabilities, providing access to the markets of Pakistan and India.
It was previously reported that Kazakhstan intends to establish a transport and logistics company in the Afghan city of Herat to oversee the project's progress.
The investment amount has not yet been officially announced, but this spring the Afghan government stated that Astana is ready to invest up to $500 million in construction.
In addition, fiber-optic cable is planned to be laid along the railway line. According to the Kazakh Ministry of Transport, this will allow for the development of digital infrastructure along the transport corridor, improve train safety, and provide high-speed internet access to the region's populated areas.
