Russia proposes overland rail corridor to India via Central Asia and Pakistan

Russia has put forward a proposal for a direct rail link connecting it to the Indian Ocean, intended to bypass the Bosphorus and Hormuz straits. The planned route would pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Experts have flagged substantial logistical and financial challenges that could complicate the project's realization. A key requirement for India would be securing Pakistan's cooperation on security matters along the corridor. If completed, the route could offer a significant overland freight alternative and reduce dependence on maritime shipping lanes.