KABUL, March 2 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's rail freight transport registered a strong increase over the past 11 months, underscoring the growing role of railways in trade and logistics, the Ministry of Public Works said on Monday.
According to a ministry statement, 5,387,549 metric tons of goods were transported by rail during the past 11 months. The volume marks a 33.3-percent rise compared with the same period last year.
Rail transport has increasingly been viewed as a cost-effective alternative to road haulage, helping ease traffic congestion, reduce transportation costs, and improve overall trade efficiency. Officials say the expansion of rail connectivity is expected to further support economic activity and facilitate regional trade. ■