Now Reading: Russia proposes direct rail link to India via Pakistan
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Russia proposes direct rail link to India via Pakistan
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…
The Story in Brief
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.
The Indian Opinion
The reports about Russia's proposed rail link to India via Pakistan are being spun in two extreme ways. On one side, some cheer it as a geo-economic masterstroke that will bypass Western influence. On the other, critics dismiss it as a pipe dream given Pakistan's hostility. Both narratives miss the point. The real test isn't the proposal itself but whether Moscow can secure Islamabad's cooperation on the ground. Has Russia even held preliminary talks with Pakistan on this route? Until we see concrete movement, this remains a geopolitical talking point, not a policy shift.
Sources (2): timesofindia.indiatimes.com, english.mathrubhumi.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
