New Siirt-Kurtalan Railway to Link Southeastern Türkiye to National Network and Ports

Türkiye’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has announced the launch of the Siirt-Kurtalan Railway Project, a 34-kilometer line that will finally connect the Siirt city center to the national rail network. Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu confirmed that the project, now included in the 2025 investment plan, aims to serve both passenger and freight transportation, enhancing logistics access to western Türkiye and ports.

Modern Rail Line Designed for 160 km/h Speed

The new line, an extension of the Yolçatı–Diyarbakır–Kurtalan railway corridor, will support train speeds up to 160 km/h, improving travel and shipment times in the Güneydoğu Anadolu (Southeastern Anatolia) region.

“With this project, we will bring the railway to the heart of Siirt,” Uraloğlu said.
“We will construct the Kurtalan Station, Airport Station, University Station, and Siirt Central Station as part of the line.”

Over 61 Kilometers of Track to Be Installed

The project includes significant infrastructure:

• 6 tunnels spanning 15,574 meters

• 12 emergency tunnels totaling 11,690 meters

• 2 cut-and-cover tunnels covering 1,523 meters

• 2 viaducts with a total length of 597 meters

• 7 overpasses and 6 underpasses

These additions will enhance transport speed, safety, and reliability in the mountainous region.

Strategic Rail Link to Enhance Industrial, Agricultural, and Port Access

Minister Uraloğlu emphasized the railway’s potential to transform Siirt’s transport infrastructure, improving access for industrial, agricultural, and commercial sectors. The line will directly serve the Siirt Organized Industrial Zone (OIZ), home to 85 factories across metal, food, machinery, and textile sectors.

“This rail link will enable seamless cargo movement from southeastern Türkiye to inland and western markets, as well as direct port access,” he noted.
“By shifting freight from road to rail, we aim to provide a more cost-effective, secure, and environmentally friendly transport alternative.”

The minister also recalled the opening of Türkiye’s first zinc smelter in Siirt in 2021, highlighting the city’s growing industrial capacity.

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