Kazakhstan to Build Railway to Afghanistan, Linking Central Asia to Indian Ocean Ports

Kazakhstan and Afghanistan have agreed to construct a railway along the route Turgundi – Herat – Kandahar – Spin Buldak, according to the Kazakh government. The two sides signed a formal protocol to initiate the project.

Kazakh authorities highlight that the railway will serve as a key component of a new transnational corridor in Central Asia. Strategically, the route is significant as it opens Kazakhstan’s access to ports along the Indian Ocean, enhancing the country’s trade potential with South Asia and beyond.

During the meeting, representatives from both countries also discussed the installation of a fibre-optic cable along the railway line. This would not only support the safe operation of train services but also improve internet connectivity for communities along the route.

In addition, the two sides considered the launch of direct flights between Kazakhstan and Afghanistan and explored potential exports of Kazakh-manufactured vehicles to the Afghan market.