EghtesadOnline: The Islamic Republic of Iran Railways plans to expand suburban rail routes by 400 kilometers and increase railroad transportation capacities through 712 kilometers of double-tracking in the current Iranian year (started March 21), the IRIR deputy for technical and infrastructure affairs said.

EghtesadOnline: As per a deal signed between the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways and Tidewater Middle-East Company, the latter will be investing 16 trillion rials ($70 million).

EghtesadOnline: The Islamic Republic of Iran Railways launched the direct transfer of containers from ship to train for the first time in 15 years on April 3 in cooperation with Ports and Maritime Organization and Government Trading Corporation of Iran, according to Saeed Rasouli, the managing director of IRIR .

EghtesadOnline: Development of Iran’s transport sector in general and the railroad industry in particular, has been a top priority of the Rouhani administration ever since it took office in August 2013. Despite restrictions during the years of sanctions, imposed on Iran over its nuclear program, figures show railroads have been thriving steadily during the past four years.

EghtesadOnline: Esfahan Steel Company’s delay in delivering rail to the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways amid restrictions on rail imports has created a shortage in the market.