Andre Klynsmith

Railway

China-built Namibian railway renovation project completed

Namibia's railway transportation network received a significant boost with the completion of the railway line restoration project between Walvis Bay and Arandis. The project, with a length of almost 110 kilometers, was undertaken by the China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) and was completed on Tuesday, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

The railway line had been in use for nearly a century and could only support trains running at a maximum speed of 40 kilometers per hour. The renovation project has significantly enhanced the railway network's capabilities, with trains now able to travel at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour. This development is expected to boost the railway transport capacity of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) by 70 percent.

Despite facing numerous challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, strong winds and dust, and a shortage of local materials, CGGC was able to complete the project within the agreed timeframe and to a high quality. According to Li Lijie, a CGGC representative, the project also provided over 500 local jobs and trained skilled workers for Namibia.

The railway restoration project is part of the Namibian government's Vision 2030 plan, and its completion is expected to enhance the country's transport capacity and drive economic development along the route. Namibia's Deputy Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi, praised the project during a recent inspection and expressed optimism about its potential impact on the country's economic growth.

The project was funded by the Namibian government, with 56 percent of the funds coming from the government's coffers and 44 percent from a loan from the African Development Bank.

In conclusion, the successful completion of the railway line renovation project is a significant milestone for Namibia and China's cooperation. It will provide a vital link in Namibia's transportation network, boosting its economic development and promoting regional integration. The project's success is a testament to the capabilities of Chinese construction companies and their commitment to delivering high-quality projects even in challenging circumstances.

Written by Andre Klynsmith
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Published By: Global Times
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