When discussing a country’s transport system, trains are typically the first thing that comes to mind. High-speed trains, extensive railway tracks, and large stations are seen as hallmarks of modern countries.
However, there are some nations where no national railway lines have been laid to date. The reasons vary from geographical and economic to environmental priorities. Surprisingly, many of these countries are renowned worldwide for tourism, natural beauty, and modern lifestyles. Today, we will explore seven countries where no railway line exists.
Andorra
Andorra, a small European country situated between France and Spain, lacks national or public railway lines. Though a railway line from Toulouse, France, reaches approximately 1.2 kilometres from the border, Andorra itself has no rail infrastructure. Its transport system is entirely road-based, with a robust bus network for connectivity within the country and to France and Spain.
Bhutan
Located in the Himalayas, Bhutan is known for its tranquillity, culture, and commitment to environmental protection. It is one of the few Asian countries without a railway line. The country’s rugged mountainous terrain, low population, and eco-friendly policies make railway construction both technically and ecologically challenging. Currently, travel within Bhutan is by road, and international travel is by air. While there are plans to connect southern Bhutan with West Bengal, India, no railway track has been laid yet.
Iceland
Iceland has never had a permanent railway network. Temporary industrial railway lines were constructed during hydroelectric projects but later removed. The volcanic terrain, low population, and dispersed settlements make railways impractical. People primarily travel by car, bus, domestic flights, and ferry services.
Maldives
The Maldives, a group of 26 atolls and over 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean, is a country where railways are nearly impossible. Travel between the islands is done by ferries, speedboats, and seaplanes. On individual islands, people use bicycles, scooters, or golf carts. Trains are not even a concept in the Maldives.
Kuwait
Despite its oil wealth, Kuwait has no operational railway or metro system. The proposed Kuwait Metropolitan Rapid Transit System was cancelled in 2023 due to financial and administrative reasons, leaving the country reliant on road transport. However, as part of the GCC Railway project connecting Gulf countries, a rail line from Kuwait to Oman is planned, expected to be operational by 2030.
Oman
Oman, located in the Middle East, does not have a national railway network. Only a tourist train operates to the Al Hoota Caves, providing visitors access to the scenic spot. The country has prioritised highway and road networks but plans are underway to build a national railway network spanning approximately 1,300 miles in the future.
Cyprus
Cyprus, situated in the eastern Mediterranean, once had a railway network. Trains operated from 1905 to 1951 but were discontinued due to economic losses. A mining railway was later built but closed around 1974. Currently, Cyprus has no railway lines, and transportation relies entirely on roads.
