02 Feb 2023 | 09:22 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Uzbekistan Railways suspends cross-border freight shipments via Hairatan dry port, Balkh Province, effective Feb. 1
Uzbekistan Railways suspends international freight shipments via Hairatan dry port, Afghanistan, effective Feb. 1. Use alternative routes.
Event
Rail operator Uzbekistan Railways has suspended cross-border freight shipments via the Hairatan dry port in Afghanistan's Balkh Province effective Feb. 1. The move comes amid a dispute over the implementation of an agreement on management of the rail link between Hairatan and Mazar-e-Sharif. While both countries' governments have described the suspension as temporary, neither has given any estimate as to how long it may last.
Afghan officials advise that transporters use the Aqina-Andkhoy railway line in Faryab Province as an alternative means to ship urgent goods. Uzbekistan Railways will also offer alternative services by truck via the port of Termez.
Shipping delays between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan are likely until normal freight rail operations resume via Hairatan. Hairatan dry port is located approximately 63 km (39 miles) northwest of Mazar-e-Sharif.
Advice
Use alternative shipping arrangements until normal rail freight operations resume. Plan accordingly for cargo delivery delays.
