The Iraqi Republic Railways Company has begun construction of a double-track railway connecting Baghdad and the holy city of Karbala via Babylon Governorate, aiming to expand rail capacity and improve transportation for millions of pilgrims, particularly during the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Director General Makki Jaber said work is underway on the project's initial phases, including earthworks, laying the gravel base, and installing the railway tracks. He described the project as a strategic step toward strengthening Iraq's rail network.

Hussein Ahmed, Director of Media at the Ministry of Transport, said the additional railway line will increase passenger capacity, reduce travel times, and allow more trains to operate between Baghdad and Karbala. The project will also support the transport of freight and petroleum products while benefiting the governorates along the route, particularly Babylon and Karbala.

The expansion is expected to ease the movement of millions of pilgrims traveling to and from Karbala during Arbaeen by increasing rail capacity, reducing pressure on highways, and improving the efficiency of Iraq's transportation network during major religious events.

Riyadh Al-Asadi