Egypt's Transport Minister Inspects High-Speed Rail Line Ahead of Trial Runs

Egypt's Transport Minister, Engineer Kamel El-Wazir, continued his inspection tours of the first line of the high-speed electric rail network (Sokhna/Alamein/Matrouh), stretching 660 km. The tour covered stations from Hadayek October to Ahmed Omar Hashim, passing through Giza and Cairo stations. This rail project is a game-changer for public transport.

Hadayek October Station: A Key Interchange Hub

The minister began his tour at Hadayek October station. That will facilitate passenger transfer between the first and second lines. The station features platforms for both lines at the same level, along with 5 pedestrian bridges. Design focuses on seamless passenger movement between different transport modes.

Giza station was next on the list, serving as an interchange between the high-speed rail and diesel trains. This station represents an advanced and unique engineering model being implemented for the first time in Egypt, with the high-speed train passing above existing diesel railway lines. All platforms are elevated, with services located below, enabling direct connectivity between the two rail systems. The station serves southern Giza and Badrashin city, allowing passengers to switch trains without leaving the station premises.

Cairo and Ahmed Omar Hashim Stations: Serving East Nile Areas

The inspection continued to Cairo station in Helwan, which serves Helwan city, 15th of May city. Southern Cairo areas east of the Nile. The minister also checked Ahmed Omar Hashim station, serving Katameya, New Cairo. New urban areas south of the Sokhna road. Nissan owners in these areas will find the new station a convenient addition.

The main workshop for the first line was the final stop, covering an area of 578 feddans. This facility will handle operations for all three lines, perform major and minor overhauls. Store up to 50 trains and locomotives. The sheer scale of the workshop demands precise coordination between all project stakeholders.

Track Works and Trial Run Preparations

El-Wazir reviewed track sections handed over to the (Siemens/Orascom/Arab Contractors) alliance for ballast laying, rail installation. Catenary poles for the overhead electric network. Electromechanical works and various systems are progressing well ahead of the trial run. The electric train will transform intercity travel across Egypt.

Trial operations without passengers will begin on one section of the line in the coming period, gradually expanding per the approved timeline. The 660-kilometer network positions Egypt among nations with modern high-speed rail systems. Beyond passengers, the line will also carry freight, reducing pressure on road networks.