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12 April 2025
Rail Technology Magazinerailway
Apr 12, 2025Rail Technology Magazine
Through the framework, valued at approximately £23 million per year, Balfour Beatty will supply, operate and maintain a fleet of high-performance tamping machines to support track renewal and maintenance projects across England, Scotland and Wales.
The tamping machines maintain the railway network by hydraulically lifting the track and packing ballast underneath the sleepers to fill voids and realign the tracks, ensuring a smooth and stable railway for freight and passenger trains, helping to reduce the number of speed restrictions and line closures caused by defects.
Balfour Beatty’s appointment to the framework builds on the company’s 25-year track record of delivering safe and efficient rail plant services, its commitment to investing in the latest rail plant technology, and its ability to deliver cost-effective and reliable solutions.
The company operates one of the most modern tamper fleets in the UK, with a strong investment pipeline that includes four new state-of-the-art electric machines which are set to enter service between 2025 and 2026; a pioneering move that aligns with its sustainability strategy, Building New Futures, as well as Network Rail’s sustainability and decarbonisation commitments.
Mick Rayner, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s Rail business, said:
“We are proud to continue our longstanding relationship with Network Rail, having first been appointed to the Supply Chain Services’ framework in 2018.”
“By leveraging our extensive expertise and our unique, modern and sustainable fleet, we will ensure the railway network remains resilient and efficient. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability will help drive improvements, delivering value for both passengers and freight operators.”
Works are due to start in Spring 2025. At peak, Balfour Beatty will employ approximately 110 people.
Image credit: Balfour Beatty
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Saudi Arabia Launches $7 Billion Railway ProjectEarlier this year, Saudi Arabia began construction on the $7 billion Landbridge railway, a massive project aimed at transforming the country's logistics and transportation infrastructure. This long-awaited project, which will stretch from Jeddah on the Red Sea to Dammam on the Persian Gulf, will connect the country's major industrial centers, ports, and logistics hubs, creating a vital east-west corridor for freight and passengers. With over 1.400 km of new and upgraded track, the Landbridge ranks among the most ambitious infrastructure projects not only in the Middle East but globally.
The Land Bridge has the potential to revolutionize Saudi Arabia's transportation network. At the heart of the project is a new 950 km line connecting the capital, Riyadh, with the country's largest port city, Jeddah. This main line extends a further 146 km north from Jeddah to King Abdullah Port.
The network includes critical components such as a 115 km line from Dammam to the industrial hub of Jubail, improvements to the existing Riyadh-Dammam link, the Riyadh ring road, and a 172 km extension from King Abdullah Port to Yanbu Industrial City. Upon completion, freight transport will be efficiently transported between Jeddah, Dammam, Jubail, Riyadh, King Khalid Airport, King Abdullah Port, and Yanbu. Authorities estimate that this comprehensive network could save the Kingdom $4,2 billion in transportation costs annually and create 200.000 new jobs in related sectors. The project also includes seven new logistics hubs that will enhance the Kingdom's multimodal transportation capacity.
A key early phase of the project is the Riyadh rail link. This 35-kilometer line, running from north to south of the city, is critical to integrating Saudi Arabian Railways' North-South Railway with the Eastern Rail Network. Expressions of interest have been invited from leading contractors for the development of this section. The contract will include viaducts, signaling systems, infrastructure, and civil works, bringing the rail link up to international standards. This integration will ensure the successful integration of the new Landbridge network with existing lines, facilitating freight movement throughout the kingdom.
The Landbridge project is a strong example of international collaboration. The project is being implemented by the Saudi China Landbridge Consortium, a partnership between Saudi Arabian Railways and the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, with local support from Al-Ayuni Contracting. International firms such as Systra, Thales, WSP, ALG Infrastructure, and Calx Consultancy are also involved. In December 2023, Hill International (USA), Italferr (Italy), and Sener (Spain) were appointed to provide project management services. This pool of international expertise aims to ensure the project is completed on time and to global standards.
The $7 billion Land Bridge railway is one of Saudi Arabia's most ambitious steps toward strengthening its economic diversification and logistics hub position in line with its Vision 2030 goals. This massive project will not only modernize freight and passenger transportation but also strengthen its strategic position within regional and global trade corridors, paving the way for the country's future economic growth.
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20 October 20253 min readSaudi Arabia Launches $7 Billion Railway Project
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20 October 2025
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Eib Global Finances India’S Green Metro Revolution With €289.5 Million For Nagpur And Pune ExpansionThe European Investment Bank (EIB), through EIB Global, has approved €289.5 million to strengthen sustainable urban transport in India. The financing includes €240 million for the Nagpur metro extension and €49.5 million for the Pune metro. The move strengthens India’s sustainable transport infrastructure, promising cleaner air, reduced congestion, and faster urban mobility while reinforcing Europe’s commitment to India’s climate and growth goals.
Introduction:
In a major push towards sustainable urban mobility, the European Investment Bank (EIB), through its development branch EIB Global, has sanctioned €289.5 million in new financing to support the expansion of metro networks in Nagpur and Pune.
The funding package includes:
This financial commitment builds upon the EIB’s ongoing partnership with India, aligning with the country’s green transition and the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy, which emphasizes sustainable and inclusive growth.
Transforming Urban Mobility:
The latest investment underscores EIB Global’s confidence in India’s urban transport sector, aiming to make commuting faster, safer, and cleaner for millions.
The two metro projects will shift passenger traffic from roads to rail, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating pollution levels.
According to EIB estimates, these projects will:
By encouraging a modal shift towards public transport, these initiatives align with India’s climate commitments and its broader sustainable development goals.
Nagpur Metro Extension – A Model for Sustainable Growth:
The EIB’s €240 million loan will fund the extension of Nagpur’s metro network, which plays a vital role in the city’s green urban transformation.
Projected Benefits:
This expansion is expected to create a long-term environmental and social impact, providing efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly transport to one of central India’s most dynamic cities.
Pune Metro Expansion – Strengthening Success:
In Pune, the EIB’s €49.5 million top-up loan complements its earlier €600 million investment that funded the construction of two metro lines covering 31.25 km with 30 stations and 102 metro cars.
Since March 2022, the Pune metro has already transported over 100 million passengers, demonstrating strong public adoption. The new financing will help extend the system’s reach, improve last-mile connectivity, and enhance passenger convenience.
Impact Highlights:
With these improvements, Pune continues to emerge as one of India’s leading examples of sustainable city transport planning.
India – EIB’s Largest Transport Partner Outside Europe:
EIB financing in India’s transport sector has now surpassed €3.6 billion, making the country the largest beneficiary of EIB transport support outside Europe. This achievement underscores India’s strategic importance within the EIB’s global development portfolio.
Key Figures:
This ongoing partnership reflects the EU’s long-term commitment to helping India achieve its green transition, while also supporting job creation and economic inclusion.
Driving the Global Gateway Vision:
The projects in Nagpur and Pune form part of the EU’s Global Gateway Investment Agenda, which aims to foster sustainable and reliable infrastructure connections worldwide. EIB Global plays a pivotal role in implementing this agenda, supporting investments across digital, climate, energy, transport, health, and education sectors.
Under the initiative:
Insights:
Nicola Beer, EIB Vice-President, emphasized the human and environmental impact of these metro projects, stating, “By extending Nagpur’s metro and further supporting Pune’s network, we are helping to deliver cleaner air, safer travel, ad faster connections for millions of people. These projects show how European financing can have a direct impact on people’s daily lives while supporting India’s green transition.”
EIB Global – A Catalyst for Sustainable Partnerships:
Established in 2022, EIB Global serves as the EIB Group’s arm for activities beyond Europe. Its mission is to strengthen international partnerships, support sustainable investments, and ensure that European finance contributes directly to global development goals.
With offices around the world, EIB Global brings European expertise closer to local communities, fostering impactful collaboration with development banks, governments, and private enterprises. Its emphasis on climate action, infrastructure, and inclusive growth makes it a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable outreach.
Conclusion:
EIB Global’s €289.5 million investment in Nagpur and Pune metros underscores the growing partnership between India and the EU for sustainable urban transport. Beyond infrastructure, these projects represent a shared vision of cleaner air, reduced emissions, and inclusive mobility — essential pillars for India’s green future.
Source: EIB – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Nagpur Metro
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17 October 20254 min readEib Global Finances India’S Green Metro Revolution With €289.5 Million For Nagpur And Pune Expansion
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17 October 2025
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Pm Modi Inaugurates Final Phase Of Mumbai Metro Line-3 And Launches Integrated Mobility App “Mumbai One”Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase-2B of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 (Aqua Line), stretching from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade, built at a cost of Rs. 12,200 crore. He also launched “Mumbai One,” India’s first integrated mobility app. Together, the fully underground metro and the app mark a major leap toward seamless, digital-first commuting across Mumbai.
Introduction:
Mumbai entered a new era of connectivity and convenience as Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, inaugurated the final phase of Mumbai Metro Line-3, also known as Aqua line and launched the “Mumbai One” Integrated Common Mobility App, creating India’s most comprehensive public transport network under one digital platform. This marked the completion of the city’s first and only fully underground metro corridor.
With the completion of the Aqua Line, Mumbai now boasts its first fully underground metro corridor, stretching 33.5 km from Cuffe Parade in South Mumbai to Aarey JVLR, spanning 27 stations along the route. Constructed at a total cost exceeding Rs. 37,270 crore, this metro line is designed to transform urban transport for millions of commuters by reducing congestion, cutting travel time, and improving air quality.
Completion of the Final Phase:
The inauguration of Phase 2B, stretching from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade, completed the last leg of the Aqua Line, which has been years in the making. The newly opened section, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 12,200 crore, now provides South Mumbai with its first-ever underground metro connectivity.
For the first time, key heritage and commercial districts like Kalbadevi, Girgaon, Fort, Kala Ghoda, and Marine Drive are linked directly through the metro network. Commuters can now reach Aarey JVLR from Cuffe Parade in under an hour, cutting travel time by more than half compared to traditional road routes.
This stretch also enhances accessibility to Mumbai’s central business and administrative zones, including the Bombay High Court, Mantralaya, Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), and Nariman Point, giving professionals and visitors a smoother and more efficient travel option.
Features and Benefits of Line-3:
The Mumbai Metro Line-3 not only promises to reduce vehicular traffic and pollution but also supports the city’s sustainability goals. By offering quick, safe, and reliable travel, it is expected to become the preferred choice for daily commuters and tourists alike.
The line passes through important intersections such as Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) — a major commercial hub — and provides a direct link to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, ensuring smooth intermodal connectivity.
A Leap Toward Integrated Digital Mobility – “Mumbai One” App:
Coinciding with the inauguration, the Prime Minister launched “Mumbai One”, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to revolutionize how citizens move across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). It is India’s first integrated common mobility app, bringing together 11 public transport operators (PTOs) under a single, unified system.
These include:
With this integration, “Mumbai One” makes it possible for commuters to plan and execute entire multimodal journeys using a single digital interface.
Key Features of the “Mumbai One” App:
The “Mumbai One” app offers a host of features aimed at enhancing commuter experience and streamlining mobility across the city.
The app aims to create a truly integrated and commuter-centric experience, allowing passengers to plan, book, and manage their entire journey through one platform. With its unified approach, “Mumbai One” enables smooth transitions between transport modes, reduces dependency on cash or paper tickets, and promotes a cleaner, faster, and smarter travel culture in India’s financial capital.
A Symbol of Modern Infrastructure:
The Mumbai Metro Line-3 represents not just a technological feat, but also a commitment to sustainable urban growth. By reducing traffic congestion and curbing air pollution, the metro contributes significantly to improving Mumbai’s quality of life and environmental health.
This fully underground corridor has also been engineered to preserve the city’s heritage structures while minimizing surface disruption. With modern safety systems, noise reduction technologies, and energy-efficient trains, the Aqua Line aligns with global standards in urban transport.
Another Step Toward a Connected India:
The inauguration of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 marks a defining moment in India’s ongoing journey toward world-class urban infrastructure. It demonstrates how technology, design, and governance can come together to transform one of the world’s most densely populated cities into a model of efficient, sustainable urban living.
By linking business hubs, entertainment zones, and the airport in a single seamless corridor, the Aqua Line redefines the city’s rhythm — ensuring that travel time becomes productive time.
Conclusion:
With the inauguration of Mumbai Metro Line-3 and the launch of the Mumbai One App, the city steps into a new era of smart, sustainable mobility. The project not only strengthens connectivity and convenience but also reflects India’s growing vision of modern urban transformation — efficient, inclusive, and future-ready.
Source: Mumbai Metro | Image Credit: Mumbai Metro
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09 October 20255 min readPm Modi Inaugurates Final Phase Of Mumbai Metro Line-3 And Launches Integrated Mobility App “Mumbai One”
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09 October 2025
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Los Angeles Metro Makes $1.5 Billion Major MoveThe Los Angeles Metro (LA Metro) is in the news with its ambitious, highly acclaimed project that radically strengthens the region's transportation infrastructure, sustainability, and mobility. 1.5 billion dollar The new section of the A Line, which extends to Pomona and was completed with a massive budget, has integrated key cities in the San Gabriel Valley into the metro network. The project strengthens connections in the region while also regional development and sustainability is seen as a strategic investment.
This extension of the LA Metro A Line has entered service nine miles (about 14.5 km) long and Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne and the final stop Pomona NorthIt connects to the subway network, seamlessly extending rail service from Long Beach via downtown Los Angeles (Union Station) to Pomona.
Passenger transportation on the new line September 19, 2025 It officially opened on September 30th, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held with great enthusiasm from local residents. The extension significantly reduces travel time for passengers; they can now travel from Union Station to Pomona. in just over an hour What's more, trains operate at short eight-minute intervals during rush hour, allowing passengers to benefit from faster and more frequent services.
in Pomona North Metrolink's San Bernardino Line This extension, connecting to the Los Angeles area, offers convenient travel not only within the Los Angeles area but also throughout the Inland Empire. It also significantly improves daily transportation for thousands of students at nearby colleges and universities along the route.
Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority Chairman Stephanie WigginsWiggins stated that the project “creates the potential for over one million residents.” Wiggins added that increased accessibility benefits regional economies and encourages public transportation throughout the region. cleaner air He emphasized that it provides.
The new stations are designed to support modern and sustainable mobility. Each station has parking, bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations Additionally, thanks to integration with Foothill Transit buses, passengers can travel non-stop.
The $1.5 billion project, largely funded by county sales taxes and state subsidies, launched in 2020. This investment is part of LA Metro's 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games It is also fully compatible with the long-term mobility planning it has prepared for.
The project also revives the region's transportation history. The current crossing was once the site of Pacific Electric's famous railway before it was retired in 1951. To Their Red Wagons (Red Cars). Today, this historic line is home to state-of-the-art light rail trains, providing modern and green transportation brought it back.
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06 October 20253 min readLos Angeles Metro Makes $1.5 Billion Major Move
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06 October 2025
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Asian Development Bank Approves $190 Million Funding For Indore Metro Rail ProjectThe Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a $190 million loan for Indore’s metro rail project. The initiative will build an underground metro line, modernize public transport, and create opportunities for women and marginalized communities, aiming to reduce pollution, improve mobility, and foster inclusive growth in Madhya Pradesh’s largest city.
Introduction:
Indore, the bustling commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh, is set for a major transformation in its public transport landscape. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $190 million loan to support the Indore Metro Rail Project, a move expected to ease congestion, cut pollution, and empower vulnerable communities.
A Game-Changer for Urban Mobility:
The approved project focuses on the construction of an 8.62-kilometer underground metro line with seven modern stations. This crucial stretch will connect Indore’s highly congested areas to the city’s airport, significantly reducing travel time and easing traffic bottlenecks. Designed with state-of-the-art features, the stations will include:
According to ADB’s Country Director for India, Mio Oka, “Indore’s rapid urbanization has led to congestion, pollution, and limited mobility for vulnerable populations. This project will not only modernize public transport but also empower women and marginalized communities.”
Promoting Inclusive Growth:
The metro project goes beyond mobility—it is designed to be an engine of inclusive economic development. Women and self-help groups will have access to commercial spaces at select stations, providing new platforms for entrepreneurship. Training, internship, and capacity-building programs will also be introduced to increase women’s participation in the transport sector.
Additionally, the project’s design ensures safety audits and monitoring of ridership data to continuously improve user experience.
Environmental Benefits:
Indore, like many Indian cities, struggles with deteriorating air quality due to rising vehicular traffic. The new metro system is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 12,414 tons of CO₂ equivalent annually. Cleaner air, reduced dependence on private vehicles, and improved connectivity are expected to enhance the city’s livability.
Seamless Connectivity through Multimodal Integration:
The initiative emphasizes multimodal integration by linking the metro with existing bus and feeder services, educational hubs, commercial markets, and other transit networks. A detailed multimodal study will align the metro with Indore’s airport, railway, and bus terminals. This will ensure smooth transfers and create a more efficient, passenger-friendly ecosystem.
The project also ties into Indore’s Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) policy, which aims to promote sustainable growth by developing residential and commercial spaces around high-capacity transit corridors.
Implementation Timeline:
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) has been entrusted with implementing the project. Operations are expected to begin by January 2030, aligning with Indore’s aspirations to become a smart, sustainable, and inclusive urban hub.
Conclusion:
The $190 million ADB-backed Indore Metro project is more than an infrastructure upgrade—it is a blueprint for sustainable, inclusive urban growth. With modern mobility solutions, environmental safeguards, and opportunities for women and marginalized groups, Indore is poised to become a model smart city, driving development while safeguarding its communities and environment.
Source: ADB – Press Release | Image Credit: ADB
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04 October 20253 min readAsian Development Bank Approves $190 Million Funding For Indore Metro Rail Project
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04 October 2025
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€45,4 Billion Investment To Be Made In Swedish RailwaysThe Swedish Government has announced an ambitious financing plan to renew the country's railway infrastructure and ensure its sustainability into the future. In the period covering the years 2026-2037, total to Swedish railways 45,4 billion euros This large budget aims to modernize the network, improve sustainability, and pay off long-term maintenance debts that have accumulated over the years.
This plan, announced by Swedish Transport Infrastructure, is expected to be approved by the government in the spring of 2026.
The allocated budget of 45,4 billion euros will be distributed under two main headings:
The most important priority of this plan is to reach the target by 2025. Infrastructure maintenance debt reaching 7,2 billion euros The long-term goal of the management is to reduce these debts in order to establish a financially sound basis for future activities. It is to be completely abolished by 2050.
Another technological step that is given great importance within the scope of the plan is European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) ERTMS is expected to be widespread by 2042, covering high-density lines and both safety and operational reliability is aimed to increase.
In addition, some projects are planned to transfer funds to areas that will provide higher returns. will be rescheduled or canceled. Resources are allocated to higher-yielding areas for passenger and freight transportation, climate adaptation ve denser network capacity will focus.
The Swedish Transport Administration emphasised the vital importance of a safe railway network for the country's national security:
“The transportation sector must increase its capacity to support wartime peacetime services that are vital in times of war, military preparedness, and ultimately, war.”
Minister of Infrastructure Andreas CarlsonCarlson stated that only 10-15% of the debt had been allocated by the fall of 2024. management and resource constraints He added that he was not in a position to immediately cover larger budgets due to the current situation.
Experts say the success of this plan depends not only on political support but also on the efficient allocation of resources. This major investment will enable Sweden to compete across Europe. a modern and sustainable railway infrastructure network will contribute to its development.
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04 October 20252 min read€45,4 Billion Investment To Be Made In Swedish Railways
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04 October 2025
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La Metro Extends Lrt Line A To 93 KmOn 19th September 2025, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) put into operation a 14.7 km extension of light rail transit (LRT) line A from the APU/Citrus College station to Pomona in Los Angeles County. This brings the total length of the line to 93 km with 48 stops, making it the longest LRT line in the world. The extension includes four new stations in Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne/Fairplex and Pomona North and allows transfers to the suburban rail line San Bernardino on the Metrolink network. The construction costs of EUR 1.3 billion (USD 1.5 billion) were financed by local sales taxes, state climate funds and a EUR 254.4 million grant from the Transit & Intercity Rail Capital programme. The design-build contract awarded to the Kiewit-Parsons joint venture in 2019 contracted in July 2020. A planned extension to Montclair was halted when the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority withdrew its funding.
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03 October 20251 min readLa Metro Extends Lrt Line A To 93 Km
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03 October 2025
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Tazara Railway Reborn With $1,4 Billion Chinese InvestmentFollowing the signing of a $1,4 billion strategic agreement between Zambia, Tanzania and China, TAZARA Railway The Tanzania-Zambia Railway is turning a new page. The project, which includes both improving rail infrastructure and purchasing new rolling stock, aims to revitalize the importance of this historic transport corridor in regional trade flows.
Reconstruction project in Zambia Kapiri Mposhi with Tanzania Dar es Salaam between the ports 1.860 km It includes the comprehensive rehabilitation of the route, which is 300 km long. The core works of the project are, CRCC within its structure China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation will be carried out by.
Details and objectives of the investment are as follows:
This railway, especially Zambian copper It was a vital export artery for the country, connecting the landlocked country directly to the port of Dar es Salaam without passing through South Africa, which was politically isolated at the time.
TAZARA Railway, when it first entered service in 1975, China's largest overseas infrastructure project at the time This project was to minimise Zambia's dependence on apartheid South Africa China-Africa friendship was a symbol.
However, from the 1990s onwards, railway traffic and infrastructure conditions began to gradually decline due to new routes in maritime transport.
Restructuring today geopolitics It is of particular importance. As China consolidates its presence in Africa, Tanzania and Zambia are also seeking to revitalize transit flows. The project's expected impacts include:
The role of the operator Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) The TAZARA Railway renovation is therefore seen as more than just an infrastructure project; it is also a strategic measure for regional development. This cooperation demonstrates the intention of African countries and China to work together to reshape global trade flows.
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03 October 20252 min readTazara Railway Reborn With $1,4 Billion Chinese Investment
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03 October 2025
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Morocco Launches €1,8 Billion Railway PlanMorocco has launched a comprehensive railway initiative to meet the transportation needs of the future. King Mohammed VI inaugurated the railway. 20 billion dirhams (approximately 1,8 billion euros) The regional rail program, worth $1,000, aims to improve transportation in metropolitan and urban areas. This initiative is based on the country's previously commissioned 430 km Kenitra-Marrakesh high-speed rail line Building on its success, the total aims to move Morocco towards a sustainable and integrated transport model. 96 billion dirhams One of the most important parts of the nationwide project worth .
At the heart of the project are three major transport networks that will connect multimodal station construction includes:
These stations are annually To 12 million passengers It will provide seamless integration between high-speed trains, regional lines and urban transportation vehicles, with the capacity to serve Casablanca-South Station, Casa-Port and Mohammed V Airport It will be a key point for the “Aero-Express” train that will connect the two cities.
The program also expands the suburban network. Ten new suburban train stations will be built and five existing ones will be renovated. In total, 92 km three lines in length, each Every 7,5 minutes It will serve 150.000 passengers daily. This expansion will improve the quality of life by easing urban traffic.
Morocco is supporting this massive infrastructure investment with South Korean manufacturers 48 automatic train sets from Hyundai Rotem For these trains, each with a capacity of 1.000 passengers and capable of reaching a speed of 160 km/h, 7 billion dirhams payment will be made. As an important step, Morocco a domestic railway industry A production facility will be established in the country in line with the goal of creating a domestic market and export potential in the medium term.
Financing of projects, National Office of Railways (ONCF) ve Casablanca-Settat Regional Council The completion of the projects aims to provide direct and indirect employment for thousands of people and reduce CO₂ emissions through public transportation solutions. This program goes beyond Casablanca, and extends to Morocco. Sustainable mobility and regional connectivity by 2030 reflects your vision.
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27 September 20252 min readMorocco Launches €1,8 Billion Railway Plan
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27 September 2025
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$2 Billion Railway Project Begins In MoroccoThe construction of a modern and sustainable transportation network in Morocco continues unabated. King Mohammed VI, on Wednesday Casablanca metropolitan area total for MAD 20 billion (USD 2 billion) He presided over the launch of large-scale railway projects worth over $1 billion. This massive investment is a key part of the country's broader railway development programme of MAD 96 billion (US$9,6 billion). The projects are part of one of Africa's most ambitious railway initiatives, the foundation stone of which the King laid in April. 430-kilometer Kenitra-Marrakesh high-speed train (LGV) is complementary to the line.
These new investments, Great Casablanca In addition to addressing future mobility needs, the program aligns with Morocco's national strategy to promote low-carbon and sustainable transport. The program encompasses a wide range of infrastructure improvements, from the construction of next-generation stations to the renewal of existing lines and the procurement of modern train sets.
The initiative aims to fundamentally transform Casablanca's railway infrastructure. Within the scope of the project, three new generation stationsTen additional metropolitan stations and five existing facilities will be rehabilitated. Additionally, 260 kilometers of new railway lines will be laid, and 50 engineering structures, two technical centers, and five maintenance workshops will be constructed. These comprehensive infrastructure projects will significantly increase transportation efficiency and capacity in the region.
The projects are being financed 70 percent by the National Railways Office (ONCF) and 30 percent by the Casablanca region. One of the most important components of the investment is MAD 700 million ($70 million) new construction started with a budget Casablanca-South stationThis station will serve both high-speed trains, regional and airport shuttles, with a capacity of 12 million passengers per year. It will also provide a strategic connection to other modes of transportation, such as trams, buses, and taxis. intermodal center will become.
As part of the program, two more major stations will be built. Hassan II Grand Stadium in Benslimane station MAD 450 million ($45 million) While it will be able to serve 12 million passengers annually with the financing, the new Mohammed V International Airport station is MAD 300 million ($30 million) It will have a passenger capacity of 5 million with a budget. These three new stations will also 24 in months The project is expected to be completed quickly, demonstrating the rapid pace of implementation. These stations will not only manage daily passenger flows but also provide critical infrastructure for major sporting and cultural events Morocco will host.
One of the most striking details of the projects is the supply of modern train sets. South Korean Hyundai Rotem Cooperation with Morocco for MAD 7 billion (USD 700 million) 48 modern train sets These trains, each capable of carrying over 1.000 passengers and reaching speeds of 160 km/h, will form the operational backbone of the new network. The agreement is more than just a purchase and sale transaction; Hyundai Rotem also commits to establishing a production facility in Morocco. This is a strategic move that will help establish a local rail ecosystem in Morocco and pave the way for potential exports in the medium term.
All these projects reflect King Mohammed VI's long-term vision for a modern, integrated, and sustainable railway network. The program aims not only to improve transportation efficiency and safety, but also to create jobs, stimulate urban development, and reduce carbon emissions. This revolutionary transformation, expected to be completed by 2030, will prepare Morocco for global events such as the 2030 FIFA World Cup. a continental leader in sustainable transportation will bring it to position.
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26 September 20253 min read$2 Billion Railway Project Begins In Morocco
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26 September 2025
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Caf Wins Eur 450M Cairo Metro ContractsCAF has signed three contracts with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) to modernise and maintain rolling stock on Cairo Metro Lines 1 and 2. Valued at more than €450 million, the agreements strengthen the Spanish company’s presence in Egypt and consolidate its partnership with NAT and the Egyptian Ministry of Transport.
The projects will be financed through Spain’s Fund for the Internationalisation of Business (FIEM), managed by the State Secretariat for Trade. The FIEM promotes public financing for landmark international projects led by Spanish firms, supporting the export of advanced technology and services.
CAF will carry out the complete overhaul of 39 metro units operating on Line 2, extending their service life by 20 years. The works include:
Alongside modernisation, CAF will provide 10 years of full maintenance for the 39 Line 2 units, covering system resets and mechanical overhauls. The maintenance programme will run in parallel with the modernisation process.
In addition, CAF will also undertake the 10-year maintenance of 23 Line 1 units, currently being refurbished under a contract signed in 2021. This maintenance agreement will come into effect once the modernisation work is completed.
The new contracts build on CAF’s ongoing work for NAT, which includes the rehabilitation of Line 1 units and the refurbishment of the Kozzika maintenance depot. They highlight CAF’s ability to deliver integrated rail solutions that combine modernisation with long-term support services, enhancing urban mobility in major cities.
“By investing in advanced rolling stock modernisation and maintenance, CAF is helping improve the passenger experience and supporting the Egyptian government’s drive to expand and modernise its public transport network,” the company said.
Egypt is pursuing an ambitious programme to expand and improve its transport infrastructure, making it a key growth market for international railway suppliers. The support of FIEM funding has enabled Spanish companies to take part in these projects, promoting the competitiveness of national industries in passenger transport systems.
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26 September 20252 min readCaf Wins Eur 450M Cairo Metro Contracts
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26 September 2025
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The World'S First 5G Railway Network Has Been LaunchedNokia, the technology giant originating in Germany and Finland, announced the launch of the world's first commercial 5G rail network operating in the 1900 MHz frequency band, in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn, on September 15. This innovation provides a critical foundation for smart maintenance, rapid recovery after failure, and automated train operations.
New infrastructure, Nokia AirScale supported by radio equipment 5G Standalone It uses the core network and includes advanced features such as automatic error management, self-healing, and real-time monitoring for high availability. The system was launched at DB's digital railway test site in the Erzgebirge region of Germany.
Important steps in transition to FRMCS This step, which is among the latest developments, supports tests of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) conducted under Europe's FP2-MORANE-2 program. FRMCS is positioned as a 5G-based successor to the legacy GSM-R communications system, enabling instantaneous and secure communication between drivers and signaling systems. This not only ensures the safety of close-range train travel but also enables increased capacity.
Nokia is working on a similar transformation not only in Germany but also with ProRail in the Netherlands. The goal is to seamlessly transition to FRMCS by migrating the existing GSM-R core network to the cloud. This process aims to strengthen network security, reduce maintenance costs, and accelerate Europe's digital railway transformation.
Railly News
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25 September 20252 min readThe World'S First 5G Railway Network Has Been Launched
Railly News
25 September 2025
railway