The Senegalese government has inaugurated the second phase of the Train Express Régional (TER), connecting Diamniadio to the Aéroport international Blaise-Diagne (AIBD). This development marks a significant milestone in enhancing mobility and connectivity between Dakar and its airport zone. According to Minister of Land and Air Transport, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye, this phase is crucial in strengthening the country's transportation infrastructure.
The second phase of the TER covers 19 kilometers of double-track electrified railway between Diamniadio and AIBD, bringing the total network length to 55 kilometers. The project also includes modern signaling equipment and a new station at AIBD, aimed at improving railway services to the airport. This development involved acquiring seven new bimodal trains capable of operating on electricity and diesel, increasing the TER fleet to 22 trains.
The investment in this phase exceeds 300 billion FCFA, made possible through collaboration between the Senegalese State and several financial partners. With this new section, the frequency of trains between Dakar and Diamniadio will increase to one train every eight minutes, down from ten minutes previously. The frequency between Diamniadio and AIBD will be one train every 24 minutes.
The minister emphasized that this infrastructure will significantly impact daily commutes, reducing time lost in traffic jams and improving the organization of professional and family activities. He also announced plans to build a new station at Sébikotane, as per the President's decision, with the companies responsible for the work already selected and market procedures completed.
To facilitate access to the TER for the population, a bus shuttle service will be established between Sébikotane and Diamniadio until the new station is built. The minister praised the efforts of all parties involved in the project, including APIX, SENTER, construction companies, and financial partners. He noted that the TER has successfully transported over 100 million passengers without incident.
The launch of this new section coincides with the approach of the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games (JOJ). The minister highlighted that this infrastructure will enhance Senegal's accommodation and mobility capacities in preparation for the international competition. To allow the population to experience the new service, the minister announced that travel will be free for a week on the new Diamniadio-AIBD section, starting September 28.
The successful completion of the TER project demonstrates the Senegalese government's commitment to improving the country's transportation infrastructure. The project's progress and future developments will likely have a lasting impact on the country's mobility and economic growth. The government's efforts to expand and modernize the transportation network are expected to continue, enhancing the quality of life for Senegal's citizens.
Key points
- The second phase of the TER connects Diamniadio to AIBD, covering 19 kilometers of double-track electrified railway.
- The investment in this phase exceeds 300 billion FCFA, made possible through collaboration between the Senegalese State and several financial partners.
- The TER has successfully transported over 100 million passengers without incident, demonstrating its safety and efficiency.
