Ethiopia-Sudan Railway advances: Feasibility study sets stage for next phase
The African Development Bank recently released its Implementation Progress and Results Report (IPR) for the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Feasibility Study between Ethiopia and Sudan, dated 14 March 2024. The study, initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, experienced some delays.
This feasibility study assessed the corridor planned from Addis Ababa-Weldiya/Haragebeya-WeretaGonder-Metema-Galabat- Gadarif-Kassala-Haiya-Port Sudan. The route covers an estimated total distance of 1512 km, with 594 km within Ethiopia and 918 km in Sudan.
The objectives of the feasibility study were to develop passenger and freight traffic projections for the proposed corridor, analyse railway interoperability and select appropriate design criteria for the standard gauge line. The study also explored engineering aspects and financing options, including the potential for developing the project as a Public-Private Partnership. The initial feasibility report was submitted on 28 December 2022, with an updated version following in February 2023.
According to the report, the goal to prepare the Ethiopia-Sudan SGR project for investment readiness has been met. This study will serve as a vital reference for future detailed design and construction stages.
The next steps for this project involve moving forward with detailed design and engineering plans, as well as securing the necessary funding for construction. The Ethiopia Railway Corporation is currently working closely with the African Development Bank, which is hoped to help finance these next phases. However, ongoing issues in Sudan could potentially delay further progress on this project.
