Detail

Afghan Ministry of Public Works on Wednesday said that a first railway line was tested in northern Afghanistan.

The railway connects Uzbekistan border with the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif, Ahmad Shah Wahid, Technical Deputy Minister of Public Works Ministry said.

Officials said that the railway lies 75-km between Hairatan port and Mazar-e-Sharif and the project has cost $165 million.

The line is expected to become a key supply route for Nato troops in Afghanistan.

After Pakistan blocked Nato supply routes, the forces decided to shift the route to northern Afghanistan.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai will officially open the railway soon, Mr Wahid added.