Siemens to supply signaling systems to Algeria

Together with ESTEL Rail Automation SPA, the German-Algerian railway automation specialist, and local telecommunications supplier Infratele, Siemens will be equipping one of the most important freight traffic routes in Algeria with signaling systems. The order, worth a total of 27 million euros, has been placed by ANESRIF, the Algerian national railway investment agency. Fitted with state-of-the-art signaling systems from Siemens, four stations are due to go into operation by 2012 on the existing line between the industrial center of Senia and the port of Arzew. Simis W electronic interlockings from Siemens will be used for the first time in Algeria.

The railway line, which is suitable for both passenger and freight services, is approximately 43 kilometer long and has a total of four stations which are to be equipped with the latest signaling and telecommunications systems. Siemens Mobility will be supplying the Trainguard 100 train control system, the Vicos automatic operations control system as well as Simis W electronic interlockings. Siemens is acting as consortium leader and will also be responsible for overall integration of the project. The consortium will be supplying the power supply facilities and training the maintenance staff of the Algerian railway operator SNTF (Société Nationale des Transports Ferroviaires) in operating and servicing the new technology.

There is a considerable need in Algeria for modernization in infrastructure projects. Under a fiveyear economic development program, the Algerian government has announced that it will be investing some 20 billion US dollars in expanding rail transport by 2014. The order for Siemens to upgrade the signaling systems on one of the most important railway lines in the country is part of this modernization plan.

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