India is actively exploring connectivity trial runs with the Middle East as part of the proposed India-Middle East EU Economic Corridor (IMEC) project.
The initiative aims to link one port on India’s west coast with its counterpart in West Asia, marking the first phase of this ambitious project. Officials involved in the discussions revealed that the trials will also evaluate associated rail links with these ports. Currently, feasibility studies are being conducted to identify rail connectivity gaps and propose viable solutions. These studies will determine the nature of cargo, expected volume, and other relevant factors. The initial phase involves a comprehensive analysis of target traffic, infrastructure deficiencies, and operational and regulatory procedures to assess both tangible (cost and time) and intangible benefits. The initial cargo types under consideration are containers, with plans to expand into dry bulk and liquid bulk (excluding petroleum, oil, and lubricants). An official noted that volume identification is still under study.
Announced in September 2023 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi, the IMEC is a proposed 4,800 km long route comprising a railroad, ship-to-rail networks, and road transport routes spanning two corridors. The project was unveiled following a meeting between leaders from India, the US, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Italy, France, Germany, and the European Commission. Strategically, IMEC is seen as a counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), though its scale and scope are relatively limited. Major ports on both sides of India and the UAE have been shortlisted for this initiative. On India’s western coast, ports such as Kandla and Mundra in Gujarat, and JNPT in Maharashtra, are proposed to connect to Jebel Ali, Fujairah, or Abu Dhabi in the UAE. The original plan envisions sea links between these ports, followed by a rail-road link through Saudi Arabia and Jordan, extending to Europe via the port of Haifa in Israel, and onward to ports in Marseille (France), Messina (Italy), and Piraeus (Greece).
Dammam and Ras-al-Khair in Saudi Arabia were also considered during initial discussions. An official explained that India’s basic rail framework is largely operational, with the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC) and Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) nearing completion. The IMEC project is poised to significantly enhance economic connectivity between India and the Middle East, leveraging existing infrastructure while identifying and addressing current gaps. As feasibility studies progress, the initiative represents a crucial step towards achieving a seamless transport network that can bolster trade and economic ties across these regions.
