Vertical Access Railway Project: Ereentsav – Choibalsan Baruun – Urt-Bidrigt Corridor

As Mongolia strengthens its role as a transit bridge between Russia and China, the vertical access railway linking Ereentsav, Choibalsan Baruun, and Urt-Bidrigt emerges as a vital artery. This corridor enhances cross-border logistics while reinforcing national autonomy in export routing.

Project Vision and Strategic Context

The Vertical Access Railway Project is a cornerstone of Mongolia’s national infrastructure strategy, aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the eastern provinces while enhancing cross-border connectivity. This north-south corridor links the Russian border town of Ereentsav, the industrial and logistical hub of Choibalsan Baruun, and the mineral-rich southern region of Urt-Bidrigt, forming a vital axis for trade, resource transport, and regional development.

Positioned to complement Mongolia’s existing east-west rail lines, this vertical route strengthens the country’s role as a transit bridge between Russia and China, while also fostering domestic integration across sparsely populated and underdeveloped areas.

Route Overview and Geographic Significance

Segment	Strategic Role
Ereentsav	Border gateway to Russia; potential customs and freight interchange zone.
Choibalsan Baruun	Industrial node in Dornod province; site for logistics terminals and warehousing.
Urt-Bidrigt	Southern extension toward mineral deposits and future China-bound corridors.

This corridor traverses ecologically diverse and economically strategic zones, including steppe grasslands, agricultural belts, and mineral basins. It also intersects key nomadic routes, requiring sensitive land-use planning and community engagement.

Infrastructure Components

• Railway Construction: Standard-gauge track designed for high-capacity freight and limited passenger service.

• Intermodal Terminals: Facilities for cargo transfer, customs clearance, and storage at Choibalsan Baruun.

• Support Infrastructure: Maintenance depots, water supply systems, and renewable energy-powered stations.

• Digital Systems: Smart logistics platforms, automated scheduling, and real-time cargo tracking.

Economic and Geopolitical Impact

• Trade Diversification: Reduces reliance on southern export routes and opens new channels to Russia and Northeast Asia.

• Mining Logistics: Facilitates efficient transport of coal, rare earths, and other strategic minerals from eastern Mongolia.

• Regional Development: Stimulates investment in Dornod and Sükhbaatar provinces, creating jobs and reducing inequality.

• Strategic Autonomy: Enhances Mongolia’s control over its export pathways and strengthens its negotiating position in regional trade.

Environmental and Social Considerations

• Sustainable Design: Potential integration of solar and wind energy for station operations and signaling systems.

• Community Engagement: Inclusive planning with herder communities, local governments, and environmental stakeholders.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Preservation of sacred sites, seasonal migration routes, and traditional land-use practices.

Project Status and Outlook

As of mid-2025, the project is in the advanced feasibility and route alignment phase, with technical studies supported by national agencies and international partners. Preliminary engineering designs are being reviewed, and stakeholder consultations are underway. Investment interest is growing, particularly from logistics firms, mining companies, and infrastructure development funds.

Construction is expected to begin in phases, with priority given to the Choibalsan Baruun–Urt-Bidrigt segment due to its immediate economic potential.