Egyptian Transport Minister, Kamal El-Wazir, has emphasized that Egypt will not sell its ports and that they are not open to being compromised. He explained that the state collaborates with international companies and investors only for management and operation purposes. This aims to leverage global expertise and enhance port efficiency. El-Wazir made these remarks during a phone interview on the "Min Maspiro" program.
The program, hosted by Rami Radwan, celebrated its 100th episode with a special segment featuring actor Khaled El-Sawi. El-Wazir highlighted the significance of transportation infrastructure, comparing roads and corridors to the essential veins of development. He noted that Egypt has become a focal point of international interest, particularly for its experience in executing large-scale infrastructure and transportation projects.
El-Wazir provided an update on the Monorail project in West Nile, stating that it is set to commence operations in April or May 2027. The project spans 43.8 kilometers and includes 13 stations. Its primary goal is to offer a mass transit solution connecting urban expansion areas in 6th of October City and Sheikh Zayed to main axes and the public transportation network in Greater Cairo.
The minister also discussed the current state of Egypt's railways, which transport approximately 1.5 million passengers daily, a significant increase from 700,000 passengers previously. He aims to boost this number to over 2 million passengers per day by 2030. With around 10,000 kilometers of railway lines, Egypt is continually upgrading its rail network, improving signaling systems, and enhancing personnel skills to minimize errors.
El-Wazir touched upon transportation projects in Sinai, emphasizing that the region is an integral part of Egypt. He stressed the state's right to develop and integrate it into the national transportation network. In response to Israeli criticism regarding railway development in Sinai, El-Wazir stated that Egypt has every right to develop its land.
The minister mentioned the construction of tunnels under the Suez Canal to enhance connectivity between Sinai and the rest of Egypt. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of various transportation projects, including the planned commencement of the first line of the high-speed train network in July 2027. This line will stretch 660 kilometers, linking Ain Sokhna to El-Alamein and Marsa Matruh.
El-Wazir also addressed ticket pricing for public transportation, noting that current fares do not cover operational costs. He cited the example of a 10 EGP ticket that actually costs around 20 EGP. The minister emphasized the importance of better utilizing social media platforms to communicate the government's achievements to the public.
Key points
- Egypt will not sell its ports and is working to enhance their efficiency through collaboration with international partners.
- The Monorail project in West Nile is set to begin operations in April or May 2027.
- Egypt aims to increase its daily railway passengers to over 2 million by 2030.
