August 11, 2026: Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin shared the idea in an interview with TASS. He said Russia should consider alternative transport routes to reduce its dependence on major sea passages such as the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz.

What Is Russia Proposing?

Khusnullin suggested studying the possibility of building a railway corridor towards the Indian Ocean. One possible route could pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan before reaching India.

He said Russia is open to exploring any route that could provide better access to India. However, the proposal is still at an early stage. There is no confirmed railway service, passenger train, ticket price or launch date at present.

The idea is mainly aimed at creating an alternative to major maritime trade routes. The Strait of Hormuz is particularly important for global energy supplies, with around 25% of the world's oil trade and nearly 20% of LNG shipments passing through it.

Khusnullin said concerns over key waterways such as the Bosphorus and Strait of Hormuz make it important for Russia to look at alternative land-based routes.

If developed, a railway corridor towards India could provide Russia with another way to transport goods to the Indian Ocean without depending completely on sea routes.

For India, such a corridor could improve overland connectivity with Russia and other countries in Central and South Asia. If direct land connectivity is eventually established, it could also open up possibilities for future passenger travel and tourism between the two countries.

(Source: PTC News)