China's Belt and Road Initiative Fuels Global Rail Expansion with African Desert Railway Completion

China’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global infrastructure influence, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative, is evident in major projects across continents. A prominent example is the successful completion of Algeria’s Western Mining Railway, highlighting China’s capacity to export its advanced rail construction capabilities and project management expertise.

The 575‑kilometer Western Mining Railway Africa’s first heavy‑haul desert railway has completed full track installation. The project was jointly built by China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and Algerian state‑owned enterprises, with construction teams from both countries working in challenging Sahara Desert conditions for over two years and finishing the track‑laying three months ahead of schedule.

This new railway line is expected to significantly boost regional economic development in southwestern Algeria by connecting vital mines, industrial zones, and ports. It will streamline resource transport, strengthen Algeria’s role within continental trade networks, and unlock access to one of the world’s largest iron ore reserves at Gara Djebilet.

CRCC implemented specialized technical solutions adapted to local standards, including prestressed concrete sleepers capable of supporting 32.5‑tonne axle‑load freight trains and speeds of up to 160 km/h for passenger services. The project also introduced advanced machinery such as Algeria’s first CPG500 track‑laying machine and automated rail‑welding technology, enhancing construction efficiency.

Key milestones include the completion of the PK330 heavy‑haul bridge, Africa’s longest heavy‑haul railway bridge, which crosses shifting sand and gravel in Tindouf Province and reflects the engineering complexity of desert rail infrastructure.

The project’s delivery ahead of schedule, despite harsh environmental conditions, serves as a testament to optimized planning and international cooperation. It reinforces the viability of large‑scale desert railway development and positions the Western Mining Railway as a potential model for future infrastructure projects across Africa, aligning with global trends in connectivity and trade facilitation.

Source: Azernews