Iraqi railway officials seeking to rehabilitate the country's neglected railroad system are visiting the United States as guests of the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to meet with American equipment and technology providers as well as financial underwriters.
A February 2, 2004 business briefing attracted participation by more than 75 US business representatives. During the meeting, Iraqi officials presented an overview of the reconstruction needs in Iraq's rail sector and met with US firms in one-on-one meetings.
Currently, the Iraqi rail system lacks the tools, machinery and spare parts necessary to maintain equipment. Much of the rolling stock is out of service due to lack of spare parts or the need to repair damage caused by looting. The track system is currently in a state of disrepair.
Moreover, the lack of a signals and communications network is a safety risk and limits the system's capacity. Additional needs exist in the area of repairing and acquiring locomotives, rail cars, intermodal facilities and equipment.
Under the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, $210 million has been allocated for the reconstruction of the Iraqi railway sector. Export opportunities for US firms exist in the areas of reconstructing and upgrading rail track systems, track maintenance equipment, procuring and refurbishing rolling stock, intermodal and container handling equipment, rail control and signaling equipment, and communications and information technology. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
