The World Bank has approved a loan of 440 million dollars to support Egyptian initiatives aimed at improving the safety and quality of service of its railways.

The total cost of the Egyptian Railway Improvement and Safety Project (RISE) is $ 681.1 million, of which $ 241.1 million will be provided by the Egyptian National Railways (ENR) .

The project aims to modernize the signage of the Cairo-Gizeh-Beni Suef section and improve ENR’s performance and competitiveness.

Egyptian Minister of International Cooperation, Dr Rania A Al-Mashat, said: “Today, more than ever, there is a great need to develop sustainable infrastructure. Redefining smarter transport solutions improves safety, improves mobility, protects the environment and strengthens job creation and economic growth.

“This project supports the dynamics of reform and the demand for urban mobility and reliable public transport, an integral part of achieving the sustainable development goals by 2030.”

The recently approved RISE project follows on from the Egyptian National Railways Restructuring Project (ENRRP).

Concluded last year, the ENRRP focused on improving the signaling system of the Alexandria-Cairo and Beni Suef-Nag Hammadi sections.

World Bank Director for Egypt, Yemen and Djibouti Marina Wes said: “This operation builds on the World Bank’s policy dialogue with Egypt in the transport sector, including institutional and governance arrangements, and security and regulatory aspects. We are keen and determined to continue supporting this vital sector which provides essential services, especially to low-income citizens, helping to increase access to employment opportunities and markets.

Egyptian Transport Minister Lt. Gen. Kamel El Wazir said: “Modernization and reform of the Egyptian railways is essential to meet the travel needs of citizens and boost the global economy. Improving service for millions of passengers a day is a priority, especially as citizens depend on ENR to access jobs and perform other tasks, including personal shopping. Increasing freight transport is also a key objective, which will increase the overall competitiveness of the economy. By partnering with the World Bank on this project, we aim to improve the performance of this important sector. ”

The RISE project will include track upgrading and modernization of the signaling system on the Cairo-Beni Suef segment, as well as the resumption of ENRRP works along the Alexandria-Cairo and Beni Suef segments. Nag Hammadi, covering a total length of 763 km.

An improved safety management system will also be put in place to improve the safety of ENR passengers and workers.

With improved quality of service and punctuality, around 90% of trains will run on time, compared to 75%.

The project will also help Egypt align ENR with international best practices by launching performance-based funding.

The ENR network includes more than 5,000 km of railways. During the 2019 financial year, the network welcomed around 270 million passengers.