Historic Hejaz Railway Set for Revival After Century of Disrepair
The historic Hejaz Railway, once a vital lifeline connecting cultures and economies, is set to rise from the sands of time. After a century of disrepair, Jordan, Syria, and Turkey have united to revive this Ottoman-era marvel, aiming to restore trade routes and reclaim shared heritage.
Originally built over a hundred years ago, the Hejaz Railway stretched from Damascus to Medina, carrying pilgrims, soldiers, and traders across deserts and empires. Its sabotage during the First World War led to its abandonment. Now, the revival project seeks to rebuild economic ties and create new trade corridors, from Istanbul to the Red Sea, and onwards to Saudi Arabia and Africa.
Jordan will assess its technical capacity, particularly the maintenance and operation of locomotives. Turkey, meanwhile, will rebuild a 30-kilometre stretch of missing track in Syria as part of the plan. Sections of the railway operated sporadically in Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon until the mid-20th century, hinting at its potential to unite nations once again.
The revived Hejaz Railway promises to be more than just a mode of transport. It will be a journey into history, a bridge between nations, and a reminder of the promise of peace and prosperity. With Jordan, Syria, and Turkey working together, the railway's revival could unlock not just trade corridors, but also a shared future.
