Imports via Herat–Khaf Railway Surge Fivefold

Local officials in Herat report a fivefold increase in the volume of commercial goods transported via the Herat–Khaf railway line.

According to them, between 2,000 to 5,000 metric tons of goods from various countries enter Afghanistan daily through this route.

Ghulam Wali Mohammadi, head of the Rozanak station on the Herat–Khaf railway, said: “Previously, we had 10,000 to 15,000 tons of imports per month, but now that figure has reached 70,000 tons. These goods arrive at Rozanak station from various countries.”

Cement, corrugated iron sheets, tiles, and diesel are among the top imported goods via the Herat–Khaf railway. These commercial goods come from countries including Iran, Turkey, China, and the United Arab Emirates.

Ashraf Mahmoodi, head of transport at Rozanak station, said: “Most imports include cement, iron, ceramic tiles, paper, sugar, oil, and diesel fuel.”

The Herat Chamber of Commerce and Investment states that the expansion of commercial activity at Rozanak station has significantly facilitated the work of importers and traders.

Mohammad Yousuf Amin, Executive Director of the Herat Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said: “Plans are in place to expand Rozanak station. Additionally, the Herat provincial government intends to inaugurate the Rabat Parian station soon. This reflects the increasing trend of goods being transported via railway, and traders are showing growing interest.”

With the rise in commercial imports through this route, employment opportunities have been created for over 250 individuals at Rozanak station. These workers play a crucial role in unloading and loading goods.

Juma Gul, a worker, said: “We’re working here and earning between 300 to 400 Afghanis daily. At night, we go home.”

Sabghatullah, another worker, added: “The Islamic Emirate has created job opportunities for us. Around 200 to 250 people are employed here.”

The Herat–Khaf railway has become one of the key routes for commercial goods transit in the country.

According to local officials in Herat, this route has connected Afghanistan to global markets.