The Islamic Republic of Iran Railways (IRIR) is engaged in a significant expansion of its rail network, with the intention of radically increasing rail’s nine per cent modal share (33 million tonnes) of annual freight carried. Over 1600 route kilometres is under construction, connecting four provinces and expanding the network by more than ten percent. The government has also announced domestic traction and rolling stock building programmes. Iran is a critical transhipment route for New Silk Road trade.