Iran-Israel Conflict: India Chabahar port, keep an eye on the International North-South Transport Corridor; Why it is important
Amidst increasing tension between Iran and Israel, India is keeping a close watch on strategically important Chabahar port and International North-South Transport Corridor (Instc) projects.Last year, India signed a decade long agreement with Iran, with the management of Chabahar Port to India Ports Global Limited. The operation of the Chabahar port is jointly managed by IPGL, a collaboration between Joarlal Nehru Port Trust and Kandla Port Trust, working with Iran’s Aria Bandar. India has provided adequate financial assistance, including $ 85 million for birth improvement and $ 150 million credit line via Exim Bank.According to the ET report, India is monitoring possible impacts on the Chabahar port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (Instc) as tension between Israel and Iran increases.Also read India dried Pakistan: Water at ‘dead’ levels in Pakistan’s dams; Planning of large Indus River in works – Top points to learnThese two Iranian connectivity initiatives serve as India’s important access points for Afghanistan, Central Asia and Russia with adequate Indian investment in port development. While Israel has not hit any Iranian ports directly on the ports of Iran, accounts for strikes along the beach of Iran.The Taliban administration in Afghanistan has expressed interest in Chabahar and is considering joining the Instc to reduce its dependence on ports in Pakistan. Additionally, many Central Asian countries have demonstrated enthusiasm for this initiative.
Importance of Chabahar port for India
Iran’s Chabahar port has strategic importance for India to expand the trade routes for Central Asia. Located in the Gulf of Oman, the port project was first suggested by India in 2003. This will provide Indian goods a significant access point to reach Afghanistan and Central Asian countries through the International North-South Transport Corridor, without crossing the Pakistani region. India’s participation in developing the Chabahar port is a response to Pakistan’s Guadar port and China’s belt and road initiative.Also read Iran-Israel Conflict: How did India kill from blocking the Straight of Hormuz? Indian refiner looks alternative routes for fuel supplyIndia has achieved the operational control of the Chabahar port after its monetary contribution to the development of the port. It is India’s first venture in foreign port management. Port acts as an essential connectivity corridor that connects India with Afghanistan, Central Asia and comprehensive Eurasian regions.Acting as a transit trade center between India, Iran and Afghanistan, the Chabahar Port offers an alternative route for the traditional Silk Road that passes through China. The beneficial position of the port near Hormuz and Indian Ocean Straits increases its strategic value and future prospects.
