Egypt awarded the 15-year operating contract for its first High Speed Rail Project

Cairo, Egypt (Urban Transport News): In a historic move, Egypt is set to join the league of nations with high-speed rail infrastructure, awarding the 15-year operating contract for its first high-speed train (TGV) to Egyptian conglomerate Elsewedy Electric and German company Deutsche Bahn International Operation (DB E.C.O). This significant step positions Egypt as the second African country, after Morocco, to venture into high-speed rail development.

The Strategic Partnership Unveiled

The official signing of the 15-year operating contract took place in the presence of Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Transport Minister Kamel al-Wazir, German Ambassador Frank Hartmann, and Elsewedy Electric CEO Ahmed El Sewedy. The collaboration between Elsewedy Electric and Deutsche Bahn reflects the Egyptian government's strategic choice to bolster technological and human cooperation with Germany, a leading force in Europe.

The Ultramodern Rail Network

The high-speed rail network, often referred to as "the Suez Canal on rails," will seamlessly connect the metropolitan areas of Cairo, the New Administrative Capital (NAC), and Alexandria. The first line, currently under construction since 2018, is anticipated to serve up to 30 million people by 2025. The ambitious plan includes two additional lines and 60 stations, linking Abu Simbel, Luxor, and the Red Sea port of Hurghada to Cairo, expanding rail accessibility to 90% of the Egyptian population.

Germany's Role in Egypt's Rail Renaissance

Germany's involvement in the operating contract underscores the Egyptian government's commitment to leveraging German expertise in both equipment and skilled labor. DB E.C.O Group, prepared to meet this challenge, stands ready to contribute to making Egypt one of the few countries in Africa and the Middle East equipped with a high-speed rail network.

Project Overview and Costs

The high-speed rail network in Egypt, with a total cost of $23 billion, spans over 2,000 kilometers across three lines. Elsewedy and Deutsche Bahn, as operating partners, will undertake the technical management and maintenance of the installations. This includes track maintenance to ensure operational safety and the prevention of breakdowns, as well as overseeing the supply chain for necessary equipment.

Addressing Cairo's Congestion: Public Transport Investments

Simultaneously, the Egyptian government continues its commitment to public transport projects, aiming to alleviate congestion in Cairo, one of the continent's most densely populated cities. The ongoing construction of Cairo's fourth metro line, a $319 million initiative financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), aims to establish 16 train stations for the transportation of 2 million people and freight in the southwest of the Egyptian capital. These investments signify a sustainable alternative to alleviate the impact of pollution from vehicles in Cairo.

As Egypt embarks on this transformative journey into high-speed rail, the collaboration with Elsewedy and Deutsche Bahn stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to technological advancement and efficient public transport solutions.