Egypt is set to receive its first high-speed Velaro electric train in August, which will be designated for the first line of the high-speed electric train network, Egypt’s State Information Service (SIS) reported.
The announcement was made during a Monday inspection tour by Minister of Industry and Transport Kamel al-Wazir, who reviewed the first line of the high-speed electric train network (Sokhna/ el-Alamein/ Matrouh), spanning the distance from Mohamed Naguib Station to October Station.
The minister monitored the finishing touches at Mohamed Naguib Station, the platforms, and the ticket halls, which serve the Katameya, New Cairo, and new urban areas south of the Ain Sokhna Road.
According to the SIS report, five Velaro trains have already been fully manufactured. Egypt has also received the first Desiro regional train from Siemens’ factories in Germany, with 14 more completed for a total of 34 ready trains.
“The high-speed rail network is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities. When complete, it will comprise three lines with a combined length of 2,000 kilometers, 60 stations, two main depots, and five maintenance points. The rolling stock fleet will include 41 high-speed trains, 94 regional trains, and 41 freight locomotives,” the SIS report explained.
The first high-speed electric train line will extend from Ain Sokhna to Matrouh, passing through the new administrative capital, Cairo, Sixth of October City, Borg El Arab, and El Alamein. This network is of great importance for the transportation of passengers and goods, and will contribute to reducing carbon emissions.
The high-speed electric train will be able to reach Cairo from Qena in 150 minutes, Aswan from Qena in 40 minutes, and Hurghada from Qena in 30 minutes.
