8 months on, few takers for Russia trade corridor developed by India

Iran sanctions and a cheaper alternative trade route via Turkey main reasons

The multi-nation trade route developed by India to cut shipment time for container cargo travelling to Russia and Europe, as well as to the high-potential markets of central Asia and Afghanistan, has remained a dud, more than eight months after it was launched.

US President Donald Trump administration's sanctions on Iran, few banking facilities, and a cheaper alternative trade route through Turkey might derail the International North South-Transport Corridor (INSTC) focused on the Chabahar port in southern Iran, government officials fear.

The INSTC has remained at the centre of India's plan for central Asia, crafted by geopolitical pundits at the