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A preliminary study revealed on Monday placed the cost of an internal railway project at JD4 billion, of which JD2.2 billion would cover compensation for land acquisition and construction of rail tracks and train cars.

In an interview with the Jordan News Agency, Petra, Transport Minister Alaa Batayneh said he expects detailed figures on the cost of the railway to be finalised in 10 months, noting that the nationwide network will be implemented gradually, in accordance with priority.

The minister noted that the study covered three aspects: detailed designs for the project, space on both sides of the railway, estimated at 40 metres, and an environmental impact assessment and geotechnical studies.

According to Batayneh, Jordan needs a railway network that stretches across 1,600 kilometres.

The minister said the government has allocated JD100 million in compensation for land acquisition, noting that one-third of the land acquired was privately owned.

He added that the government is working to prevent random construction on land alongside the railway routes.

In yesterday’s interview, the minister said the government is about to appoint a financial, technical and legal adviser for the project.

He also pointed out that studies indicate that the railway network will have the capacity to transport the same quantity of goods currently carried by trucks, “if not more”.

Referring to the Arab railway project with neighbouring countries, Batayneh said there is constant coordination with the countries involved. He noted that Saudi Arabia, Syria and Iraq have made strides in this regard.