Afghan Railways Transport Over 300,000 Tons of Goods

In recent developments, the Afghan railway system has demonstrated its growing significance in the transportation of goods across the country. The Ministry of Public Works has reported that over 300,000 tons of goods were transported via Afghanistan's railways during the month of Sunbula, which spans from August 22 to September 21 this year. This achievement highlights the potential of rail transport in enhancing trade and commerce in Afghanistan.

According to Mohammad Ashraf Haqshenas, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, more than 8,000 tons of the transported goods were exports. A notable portion of these exports included dried fruits and pomegranate juice, which are among Afghanistan's most cherished products. The majority of the imports and exports during this period were facilitated through the Hairatan, Aqina, and Torghundi railway routes, showcasing the strategic importance of these lines.

The breakdown of railway transport for the month of Sunbula reveals that over 317,000 metric tons were moved, with more than 250,000 tons passing through Hairatan port alone. The remaining goods included essential items such as oil, liquefied gas, wheat, flour, cooking oil, foodstuffs, and construction materials. This diverse range of transported goods underscores the railway's role in supporting both local and international trade.

The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment has emphasized the critical role of railway transportation in reducing costs associated with moving goods. Khan Jan Alokozay, a board member of the chamber, stated, "Railway transportation is not only vital for exports and imports but also for domestic transportation." This sentiment reflects a growing recognition of the railway system's potential to streamline logistics and improve market access.

Economic expert Abdul Nasir Rashtia pointed out the challenges faced by Afghanistan due to a lack of modern transportation systems and standard roads. He noted, "Unfortunately, Afghanistan lacks modern transportation systems and standard roads, which presents serious challenges in trade. Now that goods are being transported by rail, this can undoubtedly impact the prices of goods in the market, as they will reach the market on time and at reasonable prices." This perspective highlights the transformative impact that an efficient railway system can have on the economy.

Currently, Afghanistan boasts 260 kilometers of active railway lines that connect the country to neighboring Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran. This connectivity facilitates daily transfers to regional countries, enhancing trade opportunities and economic collaboration.

The recent achievements in railway transportation in Afghanistan signify a positive step towards improving trade efficiency and reducing costs. As the country continues to invest in its railway infrastructure, it is essential to recognize the potential benefits that a robust transportation system can bring to the economy. With timely deliveries and reasonable prices, the Afghan market stands to gain significantly, paving the way for a brighter economic future.