A train service transiting cargo from Pakistan’s port city of Karachi to Chaman and Kandahar has been inaugurated, officials say.
With nearly 35 containers, the first-ever Afghan transit trade train departs from Karachi yesterday (Saturday) will unload cargo across in Afghanistan on Monday.
The goods in transit to Afghanistan (GITA) train is a major initiative of Pakistan Railways to transport cargo from Karachi to Chaman and Kandahar.
It is expected to ease traffic flow on major key roads and highways in addition to meeting a major demand of Afghan traders.
Pakistan Railways Chairman Habib-ur-Rehman Gillani sent off the train at the Pakistan International Container Terminal (PICT) on Friday.
On a monthly basis, officials say, five to seven GITA service trains are expected to run, depending on the availability of cargo.
The service, originally planned to be launched in 2017, had to be delayed because of the security situation in the neighboring country.
