In a message to the 19th International Railroad Transportation Conference, Pezeshkian described railroad development as a strategic investment in the country’s economic future, emphasizing its role in reducing transportation costs, saving fuel, improving safety and supporting domestic production and international trade.
He called for electrifying railroad lines, modernizing rolling stock, removing network bottlenecks and encouraging private-sector investment. He also highlighted the importance of developing an East-West transit corridor through Afghanistan and connecting it to China’s railroad network, particularly through the Herat-Mazar-i-Sharif route and the planned Khavaran-Cheshmeh Sorayya railroad link inside Iran.
The president further stressed the need to expand suburban rail services and adopt modern technologies to improve transportation efficiency, reduce congestion and pollution, and enhance services for passengers and businesses.