Rekhroukh présente l’état d’avancement des grands projets du secteur devant la commission compétente
Progress Report on Algeria’s Public Works and Infrastructure Projects
On Thursday, Lakhdar Rekhroukh, Algeria’s Minister of Public Works and Basic Infrastructure, presented an update on major infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing transportation and mobility within the country. This report was made before the Commission for Habitat, Equipment, Hydraulics, and Urban Planning of the People’s National Assembly (APN).
Road Network Development
The ongoing projects encompass the construction and expansion of the road network across various categories, including highways, national roads, and local routes. As of April 30, 2023, the total road network spans nearly 146,000 kilometers, with 83% being paved. The minister highlighted that significant efforts are being made in highway development, with ten new access roads totaling 702 kilometers currently under construction. Of these, 357 kilometers have already been completed and received, while work continues on the remaining 345 kilometers. The government anticipates finalizing 163.8 kilometers by 2025 and an additional 41 kilometers in 2026.
Maintenance of existing highways has also been a focus, particularly since 77% of the current infrastructure was established over a decade ago. Studies have commenced to evaluate sections of the East-West Highway, alongside planned maintenance operations for paving and signaling.
Strategic Mining Lines
Rekhroukh addressed strategic projects, notably the West Mining Line (Béchar – Tindouf – Gara Djebilet), which stretches 950 kilometers. The project has seen remarkable progress, achieving over 4 million cubic meters of earthwork monthly. Recently, a section from Béchar to Abadla (100 kilometers) was received in April, and a connection between Tindouf and Gara Djebilet (135 kilometers) is due for completion in June 2023. The remaining portion of the line, covering 715 kilometers, is expected to be finished by the end of 2025.
Additionally, the East Mining Line (Annaba-Bled El Hadba) spans 422 kilometers. Following the receipt of two segments of 23 kilometers by 2024, the Tanoukla-Tébessa line (43 kilometers) is planned for completion by the end of 2025. The Drea-Oued Kebrit section (30 kilometers) is set for completion by the third quarter of 2025, while the Bouchegouf-Drea line (121 kilometers) is projected for the third quarter of 2027.
Port Expansion and Metro Projects
The minister discussed the ongoing expansion of the Djen Djen port in Jijel, announcing a study to be launched in June for the addition of a 2,300-meter quay, featuring five container handling stations.
Plans to extend the Algiers Metro were also highlighted, with a new line intended to connect El Harrach to Algiers International Airport over 9.5 kilometers. Work on the comprehensive system and station development is expected to begin in June, with a projected operational window of 24 months for the extension, allowing for a phased rollout of certain sections.
Cable Transport and Regional Airports
In Tizi Ouzou, a cable car project (Kef Nadja-Sidi Belloua-Redjaouna) is making progress; the first segment of 2,455 meters is already operational. The second section (1,866 meters) is expected to be completed in the latter half of 2025, with the final segment (1,158 meters) scheduled for completion in early 2026.
In Beni Abbès, a mixed-use airport project is underway in Zeghamra. Technical studies are ongoing, with findings expected by August 2023.
Conclusion
Overall, the updates from Minister Lakhdar Rekhroukh illustrate a robust commitment to improving Algeria’s transportation and infrastructure landscape. These projects are not only vital for regional connectivity but also serve as essential components for future economic growth and development. The government’s continued focus on infrastructure enhancement aims to reinforce both mobility for individuals and logistics for commerce across the nation.
