Kabul:
The Taliban’s interim government in Afghanistan has announced the successful development of a locally manufactured train engine, which will soon be operational on the country’s railways.
According to Anadolu Agency, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid shared the news on social media, stating that the National Development Corporation has completed the country’s first locally made railway engine. A video accompanying the announcement showcased the engine, attached to three coaches.
“This is the first time the National Development Corporation has built a train. Once the ongoing railway track construction is completed, Afghanistan will operate its locally made train,” Mujahid stated.
The announcement comes amid discussions between Afghan and Kazakh officials in Kabul regarding bilateral cooperation in the railway sector. Afghanistan’s Ministry of Railways noted that Kazakhstan’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Kairat Torebayev, highlighted his country’s ongoing infrastructure projects in Afghanistan and expressed interest in using Afghan routes for the transport of commercial and agricultural goods.
The Kazakh official further emphasized his government’s interest in investing in Afghanistan’s railway infrastructure.
Since taking control of Afghanistan in August 2021, following the withdrawal of U.S.-led forces after two decades of war, the Taliban have implemented various initiatives to strengthen infrastructure. However, their restrictions on girls’ education and women’s employment have drawn sharp criticism from Western nations, which have yet to officially recognize the Taliban government.
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