January 18, 2026 – A major railway project is poised to significantly boost Algeria’s iron ore transportation capacity, according to a senior official at the National Agency for Studies and Monitoring of Railway Investment Projects.
Nabil Boubaya, the agency’s central director, stated that the ongoing development of the national railway network is a key priority, overseen by the Ministry of Public Works. He highlighted the strategic importance of the ‘Western Mining Railway’ during an interview with Algerian Radio.
“The Western Mining Railway, stretching approximately 950 kilometers from Oran and Arzew to Gara Djebilet, passing through Bechar and Tindouf, is designed to transport 50 million tons of raw iron ore and 25 million tons of processed materials annually,” Boubaya explained.
He emphasized the project’s anticipated contribution to the economic and social development of the southern regions of Algeria. Boubaya also noted that the project’s execution has largely relied on domestic resources and coordination between various ministerial departments, including the Ministry of National Defense and relevant local authorities.
Furthermore, modernization projects are underway to upgrade existing lines, implement double tracks, increase capacity, and modernize signaling and communication networks along the northern corridor, which spans 1,822 kilometers and connects the east and west of the country.
Boubaya believes these railway lines will form a vital foundation for social and economic progress, given their strategic importance to the National Railway Transport Company and to local and regional development. He expressed the authorities’ ambition to connect the Algerian railway network with neighboring Maghreb and African countries in the future. This initiative aims to capitalize on Algeria’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa, particularly in connecting border trade and industrial zones, and enhancing mass transit for passengers and heavy cargo within reasonable timeframes.
Boubaya pointed out that the advantages of rail transport include reduced transportation costs, its potential use in emergency situations to ensure rapid supply delivery, and its contribution to reducing traffic congestion, particularly in areas experiencing bottlenecks.
This project represents a significant investment in Algeria’s infrastructure and its potential to become a major player in the regional iron ore market.
