Iraq’s railway project gains a major boost with a $930 million loan from the World Bank. This massive funding will help modernize the country’s railway system, which has faced decades of neglect. The plan covers more than 1,000 kilometers of rail upgrades, connecting Umm Qasr Port in the south to Mosul through Baghdad.
The Iraq railway project will serve eight provinces, aiming to reduce travel time, boost freight capacity, and improve national connections. These improvements will make cargo transportation faster and more reliable. Additionally, the project will help businesses move goods across the country more efficiently.
To carry out these upgrades, Iraq will replace old tracks, purchase new trains, and build maintenance depots. It will also develop key logistics centers to attract private investors. These centers will support long-term economic growth and create steady jobs for locals.
The focus on safety and sustainability remains strong. The government plans to install upgraded crossing systems and nationwide safety controls. Emergency response teams will also receive training to manage any crisis that may occur on the railway lines.
Another key part of the Iraq railway project is the push to include more women in the railway workforce. This move will create new opportunities and promote gender balance in a male-dominated industry. Women will receive training and support to take on various roles across railway operations.
The plan also includes reforms within the Iraqi Republic Railways. These changes aim to improve transparency and attract public-private partnerships. This combination will increase the project’s success and allow for better governance.
The Ministry of Transport will lead the project, while international companies will help manage contracts. These companies will ensure all rules are followed and quality is maintained at every stage.
By 2037, officials expect the upgraded network to transport 6.3 million tons of domestic goods and 1.1 million tons of international cargo each year. Nearly 3 million passengers will also use the new railway system annually. This shift from trucks to trains will reduce road wear and save money on highway repairs.
The Iraq railway project is also set to create thousands of jobs. The construction phase alone will offer over 3,000 full-time jobs in the first seven years. Once operations begin, the railway system could support up to 22,000 jobs every year by 2040.