The freight train is set to start operations in July, with all preparations now complete.
According to railway authorities, the train will carry a variety of export goods from Pakistan to Russia. In return, it will bring imports from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan to Pakistan.
The freight train, consisting of 16 cargo wagons, will travel along a route that passes through Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan, before reaching its final destination in Astrakhan, a key commercial city in southern Russia.
Initially scheduled for departure on June 22nd, the plan was temporarily put on hold due to rising regional tensions following the Iran-Israel conflict. With the situation now stabilised, the launch has been rescheduled.
Speaking to the media, Pakistan Railways Public Relations Officer said the initiative is part of a broader effort to expand Pakistan’s trade infrastructure and enhance connectivity with key regional economies.
“This freight corridor will not only strengthen bilateral trade with Russia but also open new avenues for economic cooperation with Central Asian countries,” he said, adding that, “It’s a historic step towards integrating Pakistan into regional supply chains.”
