Strategy to Revitalize Iraq's Railway System Announced

Minister of Transport, Razzaq Muhibis Al-Saadawi, announced a detailed strategy to revitalize Iraq's railway network, emphasizing the ministry's commitment to restoring and upgrading its infrastructure.

Key Developments in Iraq's Railway Network:

 1- Reopened Lines After Long-Term Closures:

 - Baghdad-Fallujah Line: Reopened after a 5-year suspension.
 - Silo Al-Sharqat Line (Mosul): Reopened after 30 years of inactivity.
 - Baghdad-Samarra Line: Rehabilitated with a total length of 120 km.
 - Sawa-Hujama Line: Achieved 100% completion and will be inaugurated soon.

 2- Reviving and Expanding the Network:

 - The ministry has initiated efforts to restore 12 railway lines.
 - Upgrades are underway for stations, workshops, and overall infrastructure, supported by a comprehensive modernization plan for the railway sector.

 3- Key Projects Underway:

Basra-Shalamcheh Line:
     - Designed for passenger transport between Iraq and Iran.
     - Aims to provide a safe, efficient travel option, particularly during large-scale religious pilgrimages.
     - Expected to boost religious tourism, student exchange, and medical travel, reducing travel time and costs.
 - Ongoing efforts to resolve land-use conflicts along the route.
 - Project awarded to Imathia, a Spanish company, following the tender process, with a contract signed with the Iraqi General Railways Company.

The Ministry of Transport's strategy focuses on creating a modern, interconnected railway network that enhances economic activities, facilitates safe and affordable travel, and supports tourism and trade. Projects like Basra-Shalamcheh underscore the ministry's dedication to strengthening regional ties and providing efficient transportation solutions.

The minister reiterated the government's full support for these initiatives, emphasizing their role in modernizing Iraq's transportation infrastructure and meeting the needs of its citizens.