Russia Explores New Rail Link to Indian Ocean

Russia is considering a new rail connectivity project linking its territory with the Indian Ocean as an alternative transportation corridor to India. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin proposed exploring a railway connection towards the Indian Ocean, saying such a route could help overcome challenges associated with strategic maritime chokepoints, including the Bosphorus, controlled by Türkiye, and the Strait of Hormuz, under Iran’s control. Russia’s state-run TASS news agency reported the proposal.

Khusnullin said alternative routes through countries including Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan could be explored in view of security risks affecting existing maritime routes. He stressed that any viable route capable of connecting Russia with India would be acceptable. The proposal comes amid disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz following heightened tensions in the region. A direct or alternative rail corridor could potentially provide Russia with another trade route towards the Indian Ocean and strengthen its transportation and commercial links with India.