Iran is moving forward with plans to expand its regional rail network by establishing new railway connections with Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, according to Jabbor Ali Zakari, Director General of the National Iranian Railways Company.
Zakari announced that preparations are underway to launch services to the cities of Merv in Turkmenistan and Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. The move is part of a broader strategy to modernize Iran's transport infrastructure and deepen regional cooperation in trade, tourism, and logistics.
"The Tehran–Van route with Turkey has been resumed after a five-year hiatus. Alongside this, we're working on connecting Iran’s railway system to Merv and Dushanbe," Zakari said.
In addition to the Central Asian links, Iran plans to introduce two new international rail lines in the coming months. One will connect Tehran and Ankara and is expected to start operating within two months. The second, linking Tehran to Herat in Afghanistan, is scheduled to launch by the end of next month.
These railway projects are designed to facilitate the movement of goods and people across borders, promote trade and investment, and support regional integration. They also aim to boost tourism through the development of international passenger trains that make use of Iran’s cultural and historical attractions.
Iran’s railway network currently expands by 150 to 300 kilometers annually. However, Zakari acknowledged the need for an upgrade in rolling stock to ensure efficient operations. In response, Iran is set to import 300 new passenger cars in 2025 and has signed a contract with China for additional wagons.
While rail links are being developed, direct air connections already exist between Iran and Tajikistan. Somon Air and Varesh Airline operate flights between Dushanbe and Tehran, with Iran Air also offering services from Mashhad to Dushanbe.
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