The Algerian government is on the verge of launching the most significant part of the railway line between Algiers and Tamanrasset, located in the far south of the country. A meeting was held at the Ministry of Public Works to review preparations, and the wali of El Ménéa supervised the final details on the ground before giving the green light for the project to commence. The project has been allocated 1.910 billion Algerian dinars ($14.6 billion) in the 2027 finance bill.
The railway line will stretch for 2,036 kilometers, with the section between Algiers and Laghouat already completed, covering over 300 kilometers. According to the Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, Abdelkader Djellaoui, work on 924 kilometers is about to begin, with tender offers for 651 kilometers already underway. The project involves multiple Algerian companies and two Chinese firms, CRCC and CCECC.
A recent meeting at the Ministry of Public Works focused on preparations for the launch of work on the Laghouat-Ghardaïa and Ghardaïa-El Menéa sections, which are 265 km and 230 km long, respectively. The president of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, had previously stated that the train would be operational in Tamanrasset by the end of 2028. The project aims to replicate the success of the Western mining line in Gara Djebilet, which was completed in just 24 months despite challenging natural and climatic conditions.
The Wali of El Ménéa, Mokhtar Benmalek, recently inspected the site and logistical base for the project, verifying that all necessary arrangements were in place for its commencement. He emphasized the need for close coordination between stakeholders to ensure the project's smooth execution. The project involves several Algerian companies, including Infra Rail, Cosider TP, and SNTP, among others.
The $14.6 billion project is being funded through a combination of state funds and external financing from the African Development Bank (AfDB). The government has allocated 360 billion Algerian dinars from the state budget and secured 321.6 billion Algerian dinars ($2.45 billion) in external financing from the AfDB. The project is expected to boost economic growth and improve transportation infrastructure in the region.
The successful completion of the project will not only enhance transportation links between Algiers and Tamanrasset but also contribute to the country's economic development. With the groundwork laid, the project is poised to move forward, marking a significant milestone in Algeria's infrastructure development. The project's progress will be closely watched, given its potential impact on the country's economy and transportation sector.
Key points
- The Algerian government has allocated $14.6 billion for the project.
- The railway line will be 2,036 kilometers long.
- The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
