Transport Minister Kamel El Wazir has revealed that 4,500 out of the total 7,000 kilometers of the under-development National Roads Project have been implemented so far since the program’s inception in 2014, at a total cost of EGP 75 bn, Invest-Gate reports.

To accomplish the national plan’s endeavors, another 1,300 kilometers are under construction, with investments worth EGP 25 bn, whereas an additional 1,200 kilometers are planned for the near future, El Wazir announced when addressing a panel at “Egypt Can” conference on October 16, according to a recent ministerial statement.

Since June 2014, seven new major axes have been established on the Nile River in Upper Egypt, aiming to link main roads located on the western and eastern banks of the Nile, amounting to EGP 10 bn, El Wazir pointed out, adding that another seven similar projects are underway, together with the revamping of two others, for a value of EGP 14 bn.

Coming as part of the state’s long-term ambitious scheme, the upgrading and maintenance of 5,000 kilometers of the existing road network have been completed at a total cost of EGP 15 bn. Besides, 250 bridges have been developed nationwide, the minister highlighted, stressing that all these development were carried out by Egyptian contractors.

In addition, works have commenced for building the first dry port in 6th of October Industrial Zone, west Cairo, in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, with investments valued at EGP 1.141 bn, El Wazir further stated, adding that the submission of technical and financial tenders was carried out and is under consideration.

Meanwhile, the state is currently working to prepare all the required mechanisms of tenders for the forthcoming dry port in 10th of Ramadan City, which will extend for 60 kilometers long and will be built with costs estimated at EGP 2.4 bn, aiming to serve those operating at 6th of October City’s dry port.