01 January 2012

THE final phase of the multi-billion-riyal Haramain High-Speed Rail project is be flagged off soon, with the signing of an agreement to purchase 35 trains with 13 carriages, traffic signs and railway tracks, which will be installed by a Saudi-Spanish consortium, according to the Saudi Gazette.

This phase will reportedly cost just over SR30 billion ($8 billion). It will entail the consortium carrying out operations and maintenance for 12 years. Currently, civil works are being completed and the construction of four train stations is in progress.

The contractor in charge of the Haramain project has also begun demolishing some properties to make way for the new Briman Bridge project.

A Saudi Railways Organisation (SRO) report has indicated that this is the most difficult part of the project because it involves considerable coordination with relevant authorities for rerouting traffic on the Haramain route, renovation of bridges and the moving of traffic signs, without disrupting traffic flow.

The report added that all teams have been working non-stop to complete the project. The pilgrims’ lounge has been completed and construction is under way on the Air Base Bridge.

More than 153 bridges will be built outside the urban area, 20 of which have been completed. A total of 678 flood drainage canals will be constructed as well, according to the report.

The report added that government will pay market-related prices for the acquired properties. The valuations are being carried out by a committee with members from seven official agencies.

The 444-km high-speed Haramain train will have stations in Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh and King Abdul Aziz International Airport.

• Qatar’s convention centre raises the bar
• Saudi Arabia kicks off world’s largest IPP
• EMCO, SGB-PCM win award
• Update
• JV secures $650m contract at Msheireb
• $533m urea plant deal
• Siemens ready to deliver on Saudi power plant
• DSI wins key MEP contracts
• Saudis plan ‘special’ $66bn housing project
• Alargan launches Qurm Hills
• Haramain railway final phase to be flagged off
• MAN secures Damac contract

Tags

Regional News UAE Focus Events Diary BIM Focus Legally Bound Bahrain Review Industrial Construction Doors & Windows Paints & Coatings Roofing Tenders

Gulf Construction is the undisputed leading trade journal for the building and construction industries of Saudi Arabia and the other Gulf states. The magazine provides editorial coverage on a wide range of topics which are of interest to industry professionals. In addition, regular features highlight technological developments within specific industry fields. Launched 40 years ago, the magazine has established an enviable reputation as an authoritative, respected journal with unmatched coverage of the Gulf region. Gulf Construction is essential reading for anyone with a serious interest in the region’s building and construction industry.