First block train launches from China to Iran in transit through Uzbekistan

TASHKENT. Sept 10 (Interfax) - The first block train consisting of 55 containers has been launched from China to Iran through Uzbekistan, JSC UzTemirYulKonteyner (the operator of Uzbek Railways' container fleet) said.

"The train travels through China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and will be delivered to Iran through the Sarakhs border station. The train is carrying components for passenger cars, consumer goods and other consolidated cargo," the company said.

The train was received by Kazakhstan Railways through the Khorgos-Altynkol border crossing and on September 7 was dispatched from Altynkol station along the established route.

"At the next stage, the container block train will proceed through the Keles border crossing into Uzbek territory, after which it will be sent in transit to Turkmenistan through the Khodzhadavlet border station," the company said.

The total length of the route is more than 6,000 kilometers. The block train is expected to arrive at its final destination within 14-16 days.

According to UzTemirYulKonteyner, this project confirms the practical effectiveness of the China - Central Asia - Iran transport corridor passing through Uzbek territory and creates the basis for organizing regular block train traffic along this route.

According to the company's website, JSC UzTemirYulKonteyner was established in 2002. It is the operator of the container fleet of Uzbekistan's railways and provides a full range of services for organizing container transportation across the country's territory. More than 20 logistics centers operate within the company's system.