Egypt is set to boast the world’s sixth longest high-speed network after the completion of its first high-speed electric railway, Michael Peter, CEO of Germany’s Siemens, which was awarded the venture, told Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi on Sunday during the inauguration of the TransMEA 2021.
Peter revealed that the four-line network, which will extend over 1,800 kilometres and links the country’s eastern and northern coasts, will serve up to 30 million citizens annually, cutting their travel time from an average of 4 to 2 hours.
The $23 billion electrical system will reduce air pollution by cutting emissions by 70 percent, compared to car and bus transportation he noted.
A consortium made up of Siemens Mobility, Orascom Construction and the Arab Contractors has signed a contract with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) to deliver an Egyptian rail system that will feature the country’s first high-speed, electrified main and freight rail line.
The first high-speed electric railway, whose first phase is set to be completed in 2023, is one of Egypt’s new transportation ventures meant to work side-by-side with the 1,000 kilometre-long diesel-powered train network.
From his part, El-Sisi hailed the partnership with Siemens, stressing “we seek for more fruitful development between the Egyptian state and Siemens, and hope to complete the company’s projects on time.”
Representatives from Siemens, and a wide range of regional and international players in transport sector attended the 4th Smart Transportation and Logistics Fair and Forum for the Middle East and Africa (TransMEA 2021).
Earlier on Sunday, El-Sisi inaugurated the four day-fair that features presentations about leading solutions, innovative products, and new technologies for more efficient and faster transport and logistics services.
Under the theme “Road to 2030”, the fair is being held at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in Cairo, in cooperation with Egypt’s Ministry of Transport, from 7 to 10 November.
El-Sisi toured the fair and listened to a detailed explanation from officials about a host of land and maritime transport related projects, including the upgrades and development – now underway– to public transportation network and developments of seaports.
The TransMEA features a stellar line-up of speakers, presentations, case studies and panel discussions providing access to a wealth of industry leading knowledge, information exchange, cutting-edge insights and outlooks with actionable takeaways.
El-Sisi was accompanied by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Transport Minister Kamel El-Wazir.
The country pushes ahead with expanding new smart cities and building modern transport systems to upgrade road networks and reduce travel time, transportation costs and fuel consumption. The country also seeks to boost trade exchange, reduce accident rates, and protect the environment.
