Hitachi Rail’s Cairo TCC: High-Speed Rail Innovations in Egypt

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Introduction

Hitachi Rail has delivered the Cairo Traffic Control Centre (TCC) system to Egyptian National Railways, enhancing the Cairo-Alexandria line and enabling trains to reach speeds of 160 km/h. The project, part of a larger infrastructure modernization initiative by the Egyptian Ministry of Transport, was announced on August 22, 2025, and has already reduced the Cairo-Alexandria journey time to about two and a half hours.

Centralized Traffic Control System

The Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) system manages operations for the 19 stations on the Cairo-Alexandria line. In addition to the TCC, improvements have been made to level crossings to improve safety for rail and road users. Furthermore, new technical facilities, including main and secondary control towers, have been constructed.

Project Details and Enhancements

The contract for this project was initially signed in 2013 and has been extended to more than €100m ($134.7m). Outdated mechanical and electrical signalling systems on the main lines have been replaced with modern electronic alternatives, including digital interlockings, new signalling systems, and motorised drives. A fixed and mobile telecommunications framework has been established, enabling drivers to communicate with operations managers during emergencies or system failures.

Operational Impact and Capacity Increase

As a result of these upgrades, the operational capacity of the Cairo-Alexandria line has increased by up to 40%. Trains can now reach speeds of 160km/h, reducing the journey between Cairo and Alexandria to approximately two and a half hours. This enhancement is expected to double the number of trains operating daily, increasing potential rail traffic volume from 140 trains to a maximum of 286 trains.

Freight Transport and Future Goals

The project also aims to improve freight transport capabilities. Plans are in place to gradually increase the number of freight trains, targeting 15 daily services by 2030 and 50 by 2060. The objective is to facilitate the transport of 18,400 containers annually by rail, which is anticipated to decrease reliance on road transport and reduce carbon emissions by up to 965,000t over a 30-year period. Hitachi Rail Egypt general project manager Bruno Teixeira stated that the team has played a critical part in modernizing this vital line, making daily travel safe, seamless, and more efficient for citizens in Egypt.

Conclusion

The Cairo Traffic Control Centre (TCC) system, delivered by Hitachi Rail to Egyptian National Railways, has modernized the Cairo-Alexandria line. The upgrades include a new CTC system, modern signaling, and improved telecommunications, increasing line capacity and reducing travel times.

Company Summary

Egyptian National Railways: The national railway operator in Egypt.

Hitachi Rail: The company delivered the Cairo Traffic Control Centre (TCC) system.

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