Rail transport routes between Iran and Turkmenistan

Introduction: The Strategic and Economic Importance of Railway Routes Between Iran and Turkmenistan

Railway routes between Iran and Turkmenistan hold a significant position in the international transportation network. These routes serve as a vital bridge between Iran and Central Asian countries, facilitating the rapid, secure, and economical transfer of goods. Given the geographic locations of Iran and Turkmenistan, these routes are considered among the shortest and most cost-effective ways to access Central Asian markets. The use of rail transport on these routes not only reduces transportation costs but also significantly shortens the delivery time of goods to their destinations. For these reasons, these routes are of great importance not only for Iran and Turkmenistan but also for other countries and commercial companies.

Key Border Crossings

Introduction and Analysis of Sarakhs and Inche Burun Border Crossings The two main border crossings that play a vital role in railway routes between Iran and Turkmenistan are Sarakhs and Inche Burun. These crossings are recognized as the primary entry and exit points for goods transportation between the two countries and, from a geographical and operational standpoint, play a very important role in facilitating international trade.

1. Sarakhs Crossing: This crossing is located in northeastern Iran and is considered one of the most important railway connection points between Iran and Turkmenistan. Geographically, as the closest route to Central Asia, Sarakhs is one of the busiest and most important border crossings for rail transport. This crossing is connected to Turkmenistan’s railway network and also allows for the transportation of goods to other Central Asian countries.
2. Inche Burun Crossing: Inche Burun is located in northwestern Iran and serves as another strategic crossing on the railway routes between Iran and Turkmenistan. Due to its proximity to the Caspian Sea and its connection to railway networks in Turkmenistan and other neighboring countries, this crossing is of particular importance. In addition to Iran and Turkmenistan, this route also provides connectivity to Russia and the Caucasus.

Conditions and Capacities of Each Crossing

1. Sarakhs:
   • Capacity: Sarakhs crossing has advanced infrastructure and facilities suitable for the mass transportation of goods. This crossing has the capacity to transport large volumes of industrial, agricultural, and raw materials.
   • Conditions: Railway and customs infrastructure at this crossing is well-developed, and customs procedures are carried out efficiently and quickly. There is also the possibility of direct connection to the railway networks of Turkmenistan and other Central Asian countries.
2. Inche Burun:
   • Capacity: Inche Burun has a suitable capacity for transporting various goods, especially perishable and bulky goods. With adequate storage and loading facilities, this crossing is capable of meeting commercial needs.
   • Conditions: The operational conditions at this crossing are particularly advantageous due to its proximity to the Caspian Sea ports and the possibility of connecting to water transport networks. Inche Burun is also recognized as a key point for the export and import of goods to Russia and the Caucasus.

Important Routes and Stations

Introduction of Main Railway Routes Between Iran and Turkmenistan The main railway routes connecting Iran and Turkmenistan pass through the border crossings of Sarakhs and Inche Burun. These routes are divided into two main corridors:

• Sarakhs Route: This route passes through Tehran and Mashhad and enters Turkmenistan through the Sarakhs crossing. The Sarakhs route is considered one of the fastest and busiest railway routes between Iran and Turkmenistan and connects to the cities of Mary and Ashgabat in Turkmenistan.
• Inche Burun Route: This route starts from Gorgan and connects to Turkmenistan’s railway network through the Inche Burun crossing. In addition to Turkmenistan, this route also provides access to the Caucasus and Russia and is used as a strategic corridor in international trade.

Review of Key Stations on These Routes

1. Sarakhs Station: This station serves as the most important border station on the Sarakhs railway route. With advanced loading and unloading facilities, Sarakhs station plays a vital role in facilitating trade between the two countries.
2. Inche Burun Station: Located near the Iran-Turkmenistan border, this station serves as an important hub for the transportation of export and import goods to Russia and the Caucasus.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Route in Terms of Cost and Time

1. Sarakhs Route:
   • Advantages: Due to its proximity to the industrial and economic centers of Iran and Turkmenistan, this route reduces transportation costs and minimizes the time it takes for goods to reach their destination.
   • Disadvantages: Traffic congestion and infrastructure limitations in some sections can increase delivery time and costs.
2. Inche Burun Route:
   • Advantages: With access to water transport networks and connections to Russia and the Caucasus, this route is a suitable option for exporting bulky and perishable goods.
   • Disadvantages: Additional costs associated with water transportation and customs complexities can increase costs and time in some cases.