Lancement d’une nouvelle ligne Constantine-Biskra et un train Coradia pour la liaison Constantine-Alger
Development of Rail Transport in Constantine
Introduction
On Tuesday, rail transport in the province of Constantine was significantly enhanced with the launch of a new train line connecting Constantine to Biskra via Batna, alongside the inauguration of a Coradia train service between Constantine and Algiers. This initiative aims to improve public transport quality, thereby facilitating better travel options for passengers.
Inauguration Details
The event, supervised by the Governor of Constantine, Abdelkhalek Sayouda, and the General Director of the National Railway Transport Company (SNTF), Adj Bouaouni, highlighted the importance of this development. Bouaouni emphasized that these enhancements are part of a larger program initiated by the state, focusing on the opening of new railway lines and strengthening existing services to make passenger travel more comfortable and time-efficient.
New Train Service Overview
The newly established rail line between Constantine and Biskra is now operated by a modern autorail train, which accommodates 199 passengers. This service covers a distance of 238 kilometers and is designed with various amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. Furthermore, the Constantine-Algiers route, which resumed operations at the end of March 2025 after a seven-year hiatus, features a modern Coradia train with 254 seats, including 60 in first class, and can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Strategic Importance of Constantine
Bouaouni underlined the strategic position of Constantine within the national rail network. A special program dedicated to the province has been implemented, involving extensive rehabilitation of three key train stations located in Constantine, Sidi Mabrouk, and El Khroub. This development not only enhances the local transportation infrastructure but also positions Constantine as a vital hub within Algeria’s rail system.
Financial Investment and Future Plans
The rail upgrades come with a substantial financial commitment of 378 billion DA allocated for acquiring new railway equipment to meet growing demands. This investment will also extend the national network and improve connections between provinces, ensuring high-quality transport services throughout the nation. Lines such as Tébessa-Algiers and Touggourt-Algiers are set to be reinforced, along with the opening of new lines linking major provinces to various regions across the country.
Safety and Maintenance Initiatives
Moreover, the launch event was an opportunity to inspect ongoing maintenance work on the railway tracks, aimed at optimizing safety for rail operations. Ensuring the safety and reliability of the rail network is crucial for public confidence and the overall efficiency of the transport system.
Conclusion
The recent developments in Constantine’s rail network represent a significant step forward in enhancing public transportation within the region. By increasing connectivity and improving service quality, the state aims to meet evolving transport needs while fostering regional integration. This initiative is not only beneficial for passengers but also vital for promoting economic growth and accessibility within Algeria.
