The first train transporting grain from the port of Lattakia to the city of Aleppo departed on Sunday, passing through the provinces of Homs and Hama, after a 15-year suspension. The move aims to reactivate Syria’s railway transport system and strengthen its role in carrying essential goods.  Deputy Director of the Lattakia Railway Branch Mohammad al-Hajji told SANA that the step will help ease pressure on road transport, reduce congestion, and limit damage to road infrastructure. He noted that rail transport is a safer option capable of moving large quantities of materials, which positively supports food security, lowers costs, and boosts the local economy and gross domestic product.  He explained that the main challenges facing the Syrian Railways Corporation included worn-out infrastructure and a major shortage of locomotives. In response, maintenance work was carried out and several idle locomotives were rehabilitated, in addition to completing upgrades to the network between Aleppo, Lattakia, and Damascus via Homs and Tartous, along with comprehensive track maintenance to enhance safety and ensure secure train operations.  The launch of this journey reflects the return to service of one of Syria’s most strategic railway routes, as part of ongoing government efforts to revive the rail sector after years of disruption and damage to its infrastructure. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Syrian Arab News Agency