Moscow, Russia – June 25, 2024 – Russia has successfully completed its first coal shipment to India using the eastern branch of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), marking a significant milestone in strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The shipment traversed through Central Asia, illustrating the efficiency and strategic importance of the INSTC in enhancing regional connectivity and trade.

Two trains laden with Kuzbass coal, sourced from the Kemerovo region in Western Siberia, embarked on a pioneering journey through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. This route culminated at the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, as reported by Russian Railways (RZD).

At the Turkmen-Iranian border crossing in Sarakhs, the cargo underwent a crucial gauge conversion process. The coal was transferred from Russian wagons with a 1520 mm gauge to Iranian wagons with a 1435 mm gauge, aligning with the standard gauge for Iranian railways. In Sarakhs, two new trains, each consisting of 59 wagons, were formed with the reloaded cargo from the original Russian trains, as confirmed by RZD-partner.

The final leg of the journey involves transporting the solid fuel by sea from Bandar Abbas to the Indian port of Mumbai, covering a distance of approximately 1,600 kilometres. This landmark shipment not only underscores the operational viability of the eastern branch of the INSTC but also highlights the potential for future logistical collaborations between Russia, Central Asia, and India.

Aditya Shrivastava “BHARAT РОССИЯ”, emphasised the significance of this development: “This successful coal shipment demonstrates the robustness of the INSTC and its capacity to facilitate efficient and cost-effective trade routes between Russia and India. We look forward to leveraging this corridor for enhanced trade and economic cooperation in the future.”

This achievement is a testament to the strategic partnership and growing economic cooperation between Russia and India. It also reflects the commitment of both nations to diversifying their trade routes and strengthening regional connectivity.