ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN: In a landmark move to boost regional connectivity and trade, Pakistan has announced plans to relaunch the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul (ITI) train service by December 31, 2025. The long-awaited revival of this transnational corridor is set to reopen a vital gateway linking South Asia with the Middle East and Europe.
According to Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the government has finalized preparations to make the train operational before the end of the year. Spanning nearly 8,000 kilometres, the ITI route will run from Islamabad through Quetta and Taftan into Iran, before reaching Turkey via Tehran.
The project, which had previously faced multiple delays due to infrastructure gaps and logistical challenges, is now receiving renewed attention as part of Pakistan’s vision to expand trade routes and strengthen regional partnerships. Officials have also revealed plans for major track upgrades — including a 400-kilometre line for the Reko Diq project — as part of broader modernization efforts aimed at boosting freight efficiency by 2028.
Once operational, the train is expected to reduce cargo transit time to nearly three weeks, significantly cutting transport costs for exporters and importers alike. The corridor is poised to become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic diplomacy, providing access to Central Asia and Europe while enhancing trade integration with Iran and Turkey.
Analysts view the revival as a step toward economic diversification and sustainable growth, underscoring Pakistan’s potential as a regional transit hub. The move also aligns with the country’s long-term goal of connecting with emerging Eurasian trade networks and expanding exports through rail logistics.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.