Herat–Khawf Railway Phase 2: Afghanistan’s Rail Expansion

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Introduction

The provincial government of Herat has initiated the second phase of construction on the fourth segment of the Herat–Khawf railway, a 47-kilometer section with a budget exceeding $54 million. This project, contracted to Afghan Gama and a Russian company, is part of broader efforts to enhance Afghanistan’s connectivity, trade, and regional infrastructure, including a recent agreement with Kazakhstan.

Herat–Khawf Railway Expansion

Herat–Khawf Railway Phase 2

The second phase of construction on the fourth segment of the Herat–Khawf railway has been launched by the provincial government of Herat. This 47-kilometre section has been contracted to Afghan Gama and a Russian company by the Ministry of Public Works. The project, with a budget exceeding $54 million, is scheduled for completion within 35 months.

Economic Impact and Connectivity

Herat Governor Sheikh Maulana Islam Jar highlighted the railway’s importance for economic growth during the inauguration ceremony. He stated that the completed section will connect the Herat–Khawf railway, facilitating Afghanistan’s connection to Iran and Europe via rail. This initiative aims to improve the nation’s export and import capabilities, leading to reduced transit costs.

Kazakhstan–Afghanistan Rail Agreement

Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak Railway Line

Last month, Kazakhstan and Afghanistan signed a protocol of intent to begin work on the Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak railway line. The protocol, signed between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Trade and Integration and Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Works, commits Kazakhstan to the Turgundi–Herat section as the first stage. This project is intended to connect Central Asia with South Asia.

Logistics and Infrastructure

A key feature of the plan involves the development of a logistics hub in Herat to support cargo operations. The project also includes installing a fibre-optic cable along the route to enhance digital infrastructure, improve rail safety, and provide nearby communities with high-speed internet access. The three countries plan to establish a joint venture under the jurisdiction of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) to manage operations.

Additional Agreements

Bilateral Discussions

During his visit to Afghanistan, Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Serik Zhumangarin met with Afghanistan’s Minister of Civil Aviation and Transport, Hamidullah Akhundzada. Discussions covered opening direct flights between the two countries, supplying Kazakh-built vehicles, and expanding educational exchanges for Afghan students.

Conclusion

The Herat–Khawf railway expansion and the Kazakhstan–Afghanistan railway agreement represent growing efforts to integrate Afghanistan into regional transport networks. These initiatives aim to boost trade, investment, and long-term economic stability.

Company Summary

Afghan Gama: An Afghan company contracted for the construction of a section of the Herat–Khawf railway.

Ministry of Public Works: The Afghan government ministry overseeing the Herat–Khawf railway project.

Ministry of Trade and Integration: A Kazakhstani government ministry that signed the protocol of intent to begin work on the Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak railway line.

Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC): The financial center under whose jurisdiction the joint venture will be created.

Russian company: A company contracted for the construction of a section of the Herat–Khawf railway.

Technology

Fibre-optic cable: Technology to be installed along the Turgundi–Herat–Kandahar–Spin Boldak railway route to enhance digital infrastructure and improve rail safety.

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