BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 12. The construction of a railway line connecting Ardabil city in Iran’s northwestern Ardabil province to Mianeh in East Azerbaijan province requires an estimated funding of 25 trillion rials (about $43.7 million), a member of the Iranian Parliament representing the Ardabil, Nir, Namin, and Sarein districts, Ahad Biouteh, told reporters, Trend reports.
Biouteh stated that delays in the railway’s construction are due to the lack of this necessary funding.
Biouteh mentioned that if the required funds are secured, we expect to complete the railway line by mid-May this year.
The parliamentarian also revealed that following the establishment of the Bilasuvar Free Trade Zone in Ardabil, the government has decided to create additional free trade zones in three more areas within the province. These zones aim to encourage product exports and foreign investment, with the government planning to simplify procedures to create a more favorable environment for investors.
The railway line, which was first initiated in 2005, spans 175 kilometers and is being constructed in 11 segments. Approximately 35 percent of the railway route passes through mountainous regions. Once operational, the railway is expected to transport 2.5 million tons of freight and 600,000 passengers in its first year, with projections to handle up to 4 million tons of cargo and 1.5 million passengers annually within 20 years.
The completion of this railway is considered crucial for Iran’s economy and transit development.