Cairo: The Cabinet's Media Center has released a video on its official social media channels detailing Egypt's high-speed electric train project. The initiative is presented as a significant advancement in the nation's green transportation efforts and is framed as a vital development artery within Egypt's infrastructure landscape.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the project aligns with the country's vision for modernizing its transportation system, reflecting global shifts towards sustainable practices. This development is part of a broader strategy to enhance infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and economic growth, all aimed at improving citizens' quality of life. Notably, the project is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and offer environmentally friendly travel options.
The video features insights from the director of the high-speed train project, who outlines the three main phases of the initiative. The first phase spans 660 km, beginning at Ain Sokhna Port, passing through Cairo and Alexandria, and concluding in Mersa Matrouh Governorate. The second phase extends from October Gardens, moving south to Aswan and Abu Simbel Governorates. The third phase commences in Qena and heads east towards the Red Sea, with stops in Safaga and Hurghada.
The project will encompass 60 stations over a total length of 2,000 km, utilizing three types of trains: the Velaro high-speed train, the Desiro train, and the Vectron freight train. The video reveals that construction on the first line's stations is complete, with current efforts focused on finalizing finishes, constructing bridges, and laying train tracks.
The project's manager emphasized the strategic selection of station locations to complement existing transportation networks, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and accessibility for a broad range of citizens. Special consideration has been given to the needs of people with disabilities, with technological solutions incorporated into the design to facilitate access to departure halls, ticket offices, and platforms. Additionally, separation of departure and arrival halls is intended to streamline passenger movement within the stations.
In terms of maintenance, the video highlights the establishment of six maintenance centers along the Green and Blue Lines, supplemented by two main workshops in October and Qena to ensure comprehensive train maintenance services.