UPGRADING OF THE TUNISIAN RAILWAYS

Transfer of know-how and development of an interoperable and sustainable railway system

The project represents a significant opportunity to transfer FS Engineering’s know-how to support Tunisia, with the aim of assisting the country in developing a modern interoperable railway system compliant with international standards, characterised by high levels of safety and a strong focus on environmental sustainability.

In February 2021, FS Engineering, in partnership with the Tunisian company Comete – one of the country’s leading engineering firms – was awarded a contract by the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens (SNCFT) for design verification and procurement support as part of the upgrading of railway lines 22 (Sousse–Mahdia) and 6 (Tunis–Kasserine).

The project involves significant upgrades to the railway infrastructure, including line doubling, track renewal, line electrification, station refurbishment, new signalling and telecommunications systems, and new rolling stock. These activities are aimed at substantially improving the capacity, performance, and reliability of the Tunisian rail network, with a view to infrastructure development focused on transport safety and the reduction of environmental impact.

FS Engineering’s contribution specifically concerns the integration of projects relating to the various technological components, support in defining technological decisions and the procurement strategy, the preparation of tender documentation, and assistance through to the award of construction and works management contracts for both lines. A specialist training programme is also planned for SNCFT staff in the field of railway technologies.

The project forms part of the activities already carried out by FS Engineering in the country, in particular the Feasibility Study for the Trans-Maghreb line, completed in 2018, and confirms the company’s established presence in the Tunisian market, which is expected to receive significant investments in the railway infrastructure sector in the coming years.

The work covered by the contract is currently underway, with completion scheduled by the end of 2028.