# Russia proposes direct rail link to India via Pakistan 2026-08-09T23:30:56+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has proposed a direct rail link from Moscow to the Indian Ocean to bypass the Bosphorus and Hormuz straits, which face risks from conflicts. The route would pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to reach India. Khusnullin told TASS that any option providing access to India should be explored, as the current maritime routes are vulnerable. The proposal comes amid the stalled India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. The rail link would span two continents and four countries, requiring significant infrastructure and coordination. Experts note that extending the line to India would mean dealing with Pakistan, a hostile neighbour, and securing its cooperation. Khusnullin did not provide a detailed plan, cost estimate, or timeline. If built, the corridor could offer Russia an alternative overland freight pathway to India, reducing dependence on vulnerable shipping lanes. ## Coverage - timesofindia.indiatimes.com - english.mathrubhumi.com Tags: Afghanistan corridor, Bosphorus strait, India-Pakistan relations, Marat Khusnullin, Russia-India rail link, Strait of Hormuz Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/russia-proposes-direct-rail-link-to-india-bypassing-key-straits/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/russia-proposes-direct-rail-link-to-india-bypassing-key-straits/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.