BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 21. The connection of the railway line between Iran and Iraq could create new prospects in the transportation and freight sectors of both countries, Mustafa Davudi, Deputy Executive Director of the Railways of the Islamic Republic of Iran (RAI), told reporters, Trend reports.
Speaking to local media, Davudi stated that he expects the Almameh-Basra railway line to be operational by March 20, 2026.
Davudi also noted that Iran holds a unique transit position in the Middle East. It has the potential to link Europe to the Far East and Southeast Asia, as well as to provide Central Asian countries with access to international waters.
The company official mentioned that the construction of a bridge over the Arvand River (between Iran and Iraq) began in July 2024, and the project is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Davudi further stated that a tender has been organized for the construction of a railway station in Šalamčeh. The contractor is currently on-site, and the construction of the station will begin soon. If the necessary funds are secured, the station is expected to be completed within 18 months.
"Regarding the Šalamčeh-Basra railway line, Iran needs to build a bridge over the Arvand River, clear the area of mines, and construct the Šalamčeh railway station. The total cost for this project will be around 50 trillion rials [around $87 million]," he added.
To note, Šalamčeh, located in the Khorramshahr district of Khuzestan province in southwestern Iran, is situated at the border with Iraq. The railway line to Basra, Iraq, will cover approximately 32 km. The railway plan includes crossing the Arvand River with an 800-meter bridge.
Iranian officials state that once the Šalamčeh-Basra railway line is completed, it will be capable of transporting 8-10 million tons of freight and approximately 12 million passengers annually.