Railway Expansion to Connect 16 Grain Storage Silos: A Strategic Boost for Algeria’s Agricultural Logistics
✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | May 21, 2024 — The National Agency for the Study and Monitoring of Railway Investment Realizations (Anesrif) is set to launch a significant new program aimed at connecting 16 grain storage silos to Algeria’s railway network. This initiative, announced by Anesrif Director General Azzedine Fridi, marks a pivotal step in the country’s strategy to improve its agricultural logistics and storage capabilities.
During a forum hosted by Algerian Radio, Mr. Fridi detailed that this program aligns with the national strategy to enhance the storage and transportation infrastructure for cereal grains. “Anesrif will initiate studies for the railway connections of these 16 storage silos shortly,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of this development in boosting the efficiency of grain logistics across the country.
This new endeavor complements an ongoing emergency program by Anesrif, which focuses on connecting seven reinforced concrete silos managed by the Algerian Interprofessional Office of Cereals (OAIC) to the railway network. According to Mr. Fridi, three of these connection projects have already been completed, linking silos in El Khroub (Constantine), Bouchegouf (Guelma), and Bazoul (Jijel). Additionally, the bidding process for the construction of connections to two more silos has recently been initiated.
Significant Advances in Railway Development
Mr. Fridi highlighted the substantial progress in Algeria’s national railway development program, which has seen a strong commitment from the country’s leadership to prioritize this mode of transport. Currently, 4,730 kilometers of railway lines are operational, with an additional 2,774 kilometers under construction and 6,000 kilometers in the planning stages.
One of the key strategic projects mentioned by Mr. Fridi is the construction of a new mining railway line linking Béchar, Tindouf, and Gara Djebilet over a distance of 950 kilometers. This line is expected to transport up to 50 million tons of iron ore annually. The project is divided into three sections: the first 200 kilometers from Béchar to PK200, the second 175 kilometers from Tindouf to Oum El Assel, and the remaining 575 kilometers completing the route. The construction is progressing as planned, overseen by a consortium of national companies.
Enhancing Mineral and Agricultural Transport
The development of another major railway line for transporting phosphate from Bled El Hadba (Tébessa) across four eastern provinces (Tébessa, Souk Ahras, Skikda, and Annaba) was also discussed. This line will facilitate the movement of 23 million tons of phosphate, significantly boosting the region’s mineral logistics.
Additionally, Mr. Fridi announced the near completion of the Khenchela to Oum El Bouaghi railway line, covering a distance of 160 kilometers. This line is set to open soon, featuring modern passenger stations equipped with necessary amenities, further enhancing the region’s transport infrastructure.
Future Prospects
These extensive railway projects underscore Algeria’s commitment to improving its transport and logistics infrastructure, which is crucial for economic growth and development. By enhancing the connectivity of grain storage facilities and mineral transport routes, Algeria aims to boost its agricultural and industrial sectors, fostering a more efficient and integrated national economy.
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