Hitachi Rail’s Cairo-Alexandria Line: Rail Modernization in Egypt

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Introduction

Hitachi Rail has completed the delivery of a new Centralised Traffic Control (CTC) system on the Cairo–Alexandria line for Egyptian National Railways. This project is part of the Ministry of Transport’s initiative to modernize Egypt’s railway infrastructure.

Project Overview

The CTC system, situated at the Cairo Traffic Control Centre, is designed to manage all 19 stations along the 200-kilometre Cairo–Alexandria route, which serves 54 million passengers annually. The project, initiated under a contract signed in 2013, has evolved into a program valued at over EUR 100 million.

Infrastructure Upgrades

The modernisation efforts have included the replacement of outdated mechanical and electrical signalling systems with modern electronic technology, such as digital interlockings, new signals, and motorised points. Additionally, fixed and mobile telecommunications systems have been installed to facilitate direct communication between train drivers and operations managers. Level crossings have also been modernized, and new technical buildings, including primary and secondary control towers, have been constructed.

Operational and Capacity Enhancements

The new signalling and control systems have increased the line’s operational capacity by up to 40%. Trains can now operate at speeds of 160 km/h, reducing travel time between Cairo and Alexandria to two and a half hours. This upgrade allows for a doubling of daily train services, with the line capable of handling up to 286 trains per day, compared to the current maximum of 140.

Freight Transport and Environmental Impact

The project also supports the growth of freight services. By 2030, the number of freight trains on the corridor is projected to increase to 15 convoys per day, reaching 50 daily services by 2060. This will enable the line to carry around 18,400 containers annually by rail. This shift from road to rail freight is expected to avoid the emission of up to 965,000 tonnes of CO₂ over a 30-year period.

Conclusion

The project, led by Hitachi Rail for Egyptian National Railways, has modernized the Cairo–Alexandria line. The upgrades include a new CTC system, infrastructure improvements, and capacity enhancements. These changes are designed to improve passenger and freight services and contribute to the decarbonization of Egypt’s transport sector.

Company Summary

Hitachi Rail: Hitachi Rail has delivered a new Centralised Traffic Control (CTC) system on the Cairo–Alexandria line.

Egyptian National Railways: The recipient of the new CTC system on the Cairo–Alexandria line, and a key participant in the modernisation program.

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