Zero Initiative – and hoping to significantly reduce regional road traffic emissions by replacing the many hundreds of cargo-carrying vehicles with rail. One fully loaded freight train is equivalent to 300 trucks, which means carbon emissions will be slashed by 80%. Once fully operational, the entire network will reduce 2.2m tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions every year. The estimated total benefits of emissions savings would be Dh 21.2bn over the next 40 years. Use of rail will enable greater quantities to be transported within a shorter period of time and at less cost, facilitating more efficient trade. Not just that, but with the network will replace 375,000 vehicles, which will reduce traffic congestion, accidents and road maintenance costs significantly. Besides, the building of the rail network has been ably designed and developed, and has had no impact on critical habitats, plants or animal species. Buffer zones between work areas and nature reserves had been created to reduce dust pollution, alongside a construction schedule that avoided the breeding season of birds and specialist engineering equipment that reduces noise pollution and vibration. The railway line runs from the Saudi border all the way across the UAE to Fujairah on the Indian Ocean coast, and it is being developed with an estimated investment of Dh 40 billion
The railway network is designed to carry various types of cargo, from containers to bulk goods, at speeds that rival traditional road transportation. With enhanced connectivity to key ports and industrial areas, it will reduce transport costs, decrease congestion on highways, and contribute to a cleaner environment by reducing road traffic. Etihad Rail also brings a new level of reliability to freight transport. In contrast to the unpredictability of road travel, railways operate on a set schedule, reducing delays and ensuring that goods reach their destinations on time. This reliability will be a boon to businesses across the GCC and beyond, allowing them to better plan their logistics and supply chain operations. Revolutionizing Passenger Travel While Etihad Rail’s primary focus is on freight transport, it also has significant implications for passenger travel. The railway network will provide a safe, efficient, and comfortable mode of transportation for people across the UAE and beyond. The convenience of rail travel cannot be overstated. Passengers will be able to avoid the congestion and delays often associated with road travel, enjoying a smoother and more punctual journey. For commuters, this means less stress and more time to dedicate to work or leisure activities. Etihad Rail is expected to reduce the dependency on private cars, contributing to a more sustainable and environment-friendly transportation ecosystem. It will also help ease traffic congestion in urban areas, leading to improved air quality and a higher quality of life for residents. The network spans a distance of 1,200km, featuring 35 bridges and 15 tunnels including the longest tunnel in the UAE, at 1.8km, which passes straight through 6.9km of the Al Hajar mountains. Sustainability at the Forefront Reducing the carbon footprint of transportation in the UAE, the project is expected to be more energy-efficient and emit less pollution than other modes of transportation. With Etihad Rail, the Emirates will be contributing to its sustainability and economic agendas, including the UAE Centennial 2071 Plan and the UAE 2050 Net
20 Federation of GCC Chambers
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