Addis ababa jibouti new rail way
You're referring to the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, also known as the Ethio-Djibouti Railway. Here's an overview:
Background: The Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway is a 756-kilometer (470-mile) standard-gauge railway that connects the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa to the Port of Djibouti, a major trade hub in the Horn of Africa. The railway was built to improve trade and economic ties between Ethiopia and Djibouti, as well as to reduce reliance on road transportation.
History: The railway was initially built by the French in the early 20th century, with the first section opening in 1917. The railway was later extended to Addis Ababa in 1930. However, the railway fell into disrepair and was largely abandoned after the Ethiopian Revolution in 1974.
Reconstruction and Upgrades: In 2010, the Ethiopian government and the Djiboutian government signed an agreement to rebuild and upgrade the railway. The project was financed by the Ethiopian government, the Djiboutian government, and the African Development Bank. The reconstruction work began in 2011 and was completed in 2016.
Features: The new railway has several features that make it a modern and efficient transportation system:
- Standard gauge: The railway uses a standard gauge of 1,435 mm (4 ft 8.5 in), which is compatible with international standards.
- Electricity: The railway is electrified, reducing emissions and increasing efficiency.
- Double track: The railway has a double track, allowing for increased capacity and reduced congestion.
- Signaling system: The railway features a modern signaling system, ensuring safe and efficient train operations.
- Container terminals: The railway has container terminals at both ends, allowing for efficient loading and unloading of cargo.
Impact: The Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway has had a significant impact on the economies of both Ethiopia and Djibouti:
- Trade: The railway has increased trade between the two countries, with cargo volumes increasing by over 50%.
- Economic growth: The railway has contributed to economic growth in both countries, with the Ethiopian government estimating that the railway has created over 10,000 jobs.
- Infrastructure development: The railway has also spurred infrastructure development in both countries, with investments in roads, ports, and other transportation infrastructure.
Overall, the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway is a critical transportation link between Ethiopia and Djibouti, and its reconstruction and upgrade have had a significant impact on the economies of both countries.