Lebanon’s Railway Revival: A Pathway to Economic Growth and Regional Unity

Lebanon’s new leadership seeks to revive its railway network, aiming to reconnect with Syria and Iraq, while potentially playing a role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Carlos Naffa leads advocacy for this revival, emphasizing its historical significance and economic potential. Despite renewed interest from international firms, political and financial challenges remain formidable barriers to progress.

Lebanon’s leadership aims to revive its dormant railway network, reconnecting with neighboring Syria and Iraq, while potentially positioning as a key link in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Historically, the railway connected Beirut to Damascus and Haifa until it fell inactive due to the civil war starting in 1975, which devastated the underfunded system. Previous attempts to reinstate the railway have failed, largely due to political instability, security issues, and the ongoing financial crisis since 2019.

Carlos Naffa, head of the advocacy group “Train Train,” has taken a leading role in pushing for the revival of Lebanon’s railway infrastructure, highlighting its historical significance. He recalled that the first train journey from Beirut to Damascus occurred on August 3, 1895. Naffa has persistently criticized the previous government’s management and negligence, particularly referencing the Beirut Port explosion and the lack of formal studies from international railway firms as critical barriers to progress.

Naffa remarked that the Arab transit trade, estimated to surpass $200 billion annually, should not be monopolized by any single regional facility, such as the Suez Canal, Syrian ports, or Israeli ports. He emphasized the importance of implementing the ESCWA Corridor agreement to enhance transit and stimulate economic growth, especially with anticipated global economic increases by 2026. Lebanon’s ports in Beirut and Tripoli could compete with regional ports, benefiting global trade and regional transport links.

To garner support for railway restoration, Train Train has developed a strategic transport plan aimed at connecting all regions of Lebanon. This proposal will be presented to newly elected President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, advocating for public-private partnerships to fund and implement the railway restoration. Naffa envisions the railway as a critical element in revitalizing Lebanon’s economy, improving connectivity, and attracting international investment.

The BRI represents a significant source of global infrastructure investment, particularly in the Middle East, which received the largest share in the first half of 2022. Although funding for BRI initiatives dipped slightly, the Middle East still accounted for 57% of total investments. Thus, rehabilitating Lebanon’s railway may align with China’s interest in developing economic corridors, establishing Lebanon as a vital hub for international trade.

Despite increased international interest, including from French, Chinese, Spanish, and Italian firms, various challenges remain. Political instability, financial issues, and governmental reluctance have hindered the revival prospects. Discussions with foreign investors have primarily been discreet, owing to entrenched political and financial interests, prompting civil society groups like the National Network for Transport Justice to ensure the legal and financial integrity of transport projects.

Naffa emphasizes that any railway development must be part of a sustainable long-term plan fostering economic growth and social equity. The envisioned railway’s potential extends beyond Lebanon, possibly linking vital areas such as the Bekaa Valley and Eastern Lebanon and aligning with transport routes in Syria and Iraq. Earlier in January, there were promising signs of progress as Naffa’s group gained support from Lebanese officials committed to revitalizing the railway system.

Sajee Atiyya, chairman of parliament’s Public Works Committee, reiterated the project’s strategic importance, stating, “Resurrecting the rail project was demanded several years ago. Now, with the election of President Aoun, we hope that the project will materialize.” The proposed railway network may alleviate traffic congestion, reduce pollution, and foster economic growth by enhancing trade and tourism, making regional destinations more accessible for Lebanese citizens.

The revival of Lebanon’s railway network holds significant promise for economic growth and regional connectivity. With strong advocacy from figures like Carlos Naffa, support from the new leadership, and potential investments from international firms, there are hopeful signs of progress. However, the endeavor faces considerable challenges that must be addressed to ensure the successful implementation of this vital project.

Original Source: www.intellinews.com