Al-Burhan Group (ABG) has taken initial steps towards it aim of developing Iraq’s transport infrastructure network. Iraqi Republic Railways plans to upgrade Baghdad’s transport infrastructure by facilitating the construction of a 112 km Loop Line Railway track surrounding the Capital, Baghdad. It will be capable of moving both passengers and cargo freight quickly and efficiently throughout the city.

The main elements of the multi-billion (US) dollar project consist of a new Central Station, new East Station, six interchanges, two bridges, signalling and almost 300 km of track in total. The company has formed a consortium with several prominent international firms in order to formally submit a pre-qualification bid to the client; Iraqi Republic Railways (IRR).

The group of partners consists of: Al-Burhan Group, Balfour Beatty Rail SpA (Italy), Dorsch Consult Transport Infrastructure (Germany), Orascom Construction Industries (Egypt), TSO (France) and Thyssen Krupp GFT Gleistechnik GmbH (Germany). The partners have agreed to collaborate and bring together their various capabilities and areas of expertise to attempt to move the project from conception to completion.

The consortium members each have specific roles that they plan to bring to the project: Al-Burhan Group will be responsible for the supply of concrete sleepers (from its own factory in Abu Ghraib), supply of materials and local work as well as providing facilitation and representation for the consortium to State representatives.

Balfour Beatty will provide the design and supply of the M&E for the electrical substations and overhead contact line, telecommunication, auxiliary power supply, telecommand (SCADA) and power connections to the grid.

Dorsch Consult will work on the engineering studies and update the old design of the project. Orascom in partnership with TSO will provide civil works, track laying including provision of railway materials and workshop including equipment supply.

Finally, Thyssen Krupp will supply part of the railway materials and project management.

ABG brings to the consortium a wealth of experience in Iraq by conducting large scale railway projects. The construction of the Loop Line would be a significant addition to its illustrious construction portfolio. With the pre-qualification bid now submitted the consortium must await the decision of IRR who will decide on whether the consortium will be qualified to submit an offer to construct the Baghdad Loop Line. Their decision is expected imminently.