Our Policy

Explore ARC's guiding principles and strategic direction for Afghanistan's railway transformation.

1. Introduction

The Afghanistan Railway Consortium (ARC) is a multi-stakeholder platform dedicated to the development, modernization, and management of Afghanistan's railway sector. Established to foster cooperation between public institutions, private enterprises, and international partners, ARC aims to transform Afghanistan into a regional hub of connectivity, trade, and economic growth.

ARC brings together expertise in railway engineering, logistics, infrastructure financing, and trade facilitation, working to establish a sustainable and integrated railway network that links Afghanistan with Central Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Our Core Values

Integrity & Transparency

Highest ethical standards, accountability, and trust.

Excellence

World-class performance in railway development.

Collaboration & Partnership

Joint efforts with government, private sector, and global partners.

Innovation

Embracing technology for efficient and sustainable operations.

Inclusivity

Gender equality, diversity, and opportunities for all Afghans.

Safety & Sustainability

Prioritizing people, assets, and the environment.

National Development

Building economic resilience through connectivity and trade.

Strategic Objectives

  • Develop and expand Afghanistan's railway infrastructure in alignment with CAREC, TAPI, Belt and Road Initiative, and regional trade corridors.
  • Facilitate public-private partnerships (PPP) to mobilize investment and technical expertise.
  • Enhance trade facilitation and logistics services across borders.
  • Promote capacity building and knowledge transfer in railway engineering and management.
  • Strengthen institutional frameworks to ensure good governance and compliance with international standards.

Areas of Focus

  • Railway Infrastructure Development – Construction, rehabilitation, and modernization of railway lines.
  • Logistics & Trade Facilitation – Streamlining customs, freight handling, and cross-border movement.
  • Investment & Financing – Mobilizing domestic and international capital.
  • Research & Innovation – Feasibility studies and adoption of best practices.
  • Capacity Building – Training programs for engineers, managers, and operators.

Partnerships & Collaboration

ARC collaborates with:

  • Government of Afghanistan – Ministry of Transport, Commerce, etc.
  • Regional Partners – Neighboring countries for cross-border connectivity.
  • International Organizations – ADB, World Bank, UN, CAREC.
  • Private Sector & Investors – Domestic and foreign companies.

Commitment to Impact

ARC's efforts aim to:

  • Reduce transport costs and time for goods and passengers.
  • Create jobs and boost industrial growth in Afghanistan.
  • Position Afghanistan as a land bridge of trade between Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East.
  • Support regional peace and stability through economic integration.