- Russia proposed exploring a railway route connecting the country to the Indian Ocean and India
- The route may cross Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan before reaching India
- The plan aims to reduce risks tied to maritime routes like the Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz
Russia has proposed exploring a railway route that could eventually connect the country to the Indian Ocean and provide access to India.
The idea was shared by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin in an interview with TASS. He said Russia should look at alternative routes to reduce risks linked to important maritime routes, including the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz.
If implemented, travellers, it could eventually open the door to a long-distance train journey between Russia and India.
What Exactly Has Russia Proposed?
Khusnullin said Russia should explore building a railway route to the Indian Ocean.
One possible route mentioned is from Russia, crossing Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, before finally reaching India.
He said Russia would consider any option that provides access to India. However, this is only a proposal at this stage. There is no confirmed Russia-India passenger train, route, ticket price or launch date yet.
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Why Does Russia Want A Railway Route?
Photo: Canva
The proposal is aimed at creating an alternative to important sea routes. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's key shipping routes. Around 25% of global oil trade and about 20% of LNG shipments pass through the strait.
Khusnullin said concerns around the Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz could make alternative land routes important.
A railway connection towards India could give Russia another way to move goods towards the Indian Ocean without relying entirely on maritime routes.
What Does This Mean For India?
For India, such a railway corridor could eventually strengthen overland connectivity with Russia and other parts of Central and South Asia.
It could also be significant for tourism. If passenger trains are introduced in the future, travellers could potentially have a new way to explore several countries on one long journey instead of flying between destinations.
However, this is not a confirmed tourist route yet.
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The biggest significance of the proposal is that Russia is considering a land-based connection towards India.
