Fast and futuristic trains for Gulf region

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Fast and futuristic trains for Gulf region

New rail concept may reflect in $352 billion Mena projects under way.

By Issac John

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Published: Tue 8 Mar 2016, 11:00 PM

Last updated: Thu 10 Mar 2016, 8:32 AM

Dubai: Horse of the Gulf, or Hesan Alkhaleej - a concept for a premium high-speed capacity intercity train tailored for the Gulf region - has been unveiled by technology giant Siemens.
The new train technology showcased on Tuesday at the Middle East Rail conference in Dubai offers intelligent, connected, digitalised mobility, and demonstrates how innovation can revolutionise regional transportation by boosting the reliability and efficiency of infrastructure, optimising the throughput and enhancing the passenger experience. The futuristic train is designed to withstand ambient temperatures in excess of 55 degrees Celsius, and incorporates sand-filtering technologies to ensure reliable service in the region's challenging climate.
"Unprecedented levels of redundancy, especially with regard to air conditioning and power supply, ensure that even in the event of multiple failures the train will be able to continue its journey and protect passengers," Siemens said.
The train would also be equipped to run on tracks suitable for heavy freight services, enabling mixed-use services to accommodate the varied future requirements of the region's rail systems.
The rail conference, which is showcasing a host innovative concepts by global technology leaders, assumers greater significance with Middle East and North Africa countries are geared up to go with their plans to develop a strong passenger and freight transport network, which is ably reflected in the 16 major railway projects worth $352 billion that are currently under way in the region.
The UAE is building a 1,200-kilometre rail network connecting all seven emirates and the country with Saudi Arabia and Oman. Etihad Rail, which is developing the Dh40 billion rail network, has completed the 266km first stage.  The 628km second stage is intended to link Khalifa Port and Jebel Ali ports to the Saudi border at Ghweifat and the Omani border at Al Ain.
Autodesk, a global leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software, has expressed its intentions of playing a key role in the move to design, visualise and create futuristic rail networks across the Mena region. The company is hopeful that its revolutionary Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology would provide the much needed push in developing rail networks of the future.
Autodesk argues that one advantage of BIM is the ability to meet project timing and sustainability expectations as it can help rail owners, engineering service providers, and contractors access, integrate, and analyse information more holistically to increase productivity and improve the way they plan, build, and manage projects. Another advantage is the provision of a more comprehensive and accurate view of the project.
 "Utilising BIM can result in evaluating alternatives faster and create simulations and visualisations for faster approvals. It can also improve communication by creating a central point to help global field teams manage data, keep track of quality, check adherence to standards, and document projects," Autodesk officials said.
At the two-day rail conference, Siemens is showcasing its full portfolio for rail and mobility innovation. Siemens said its electrification, automation and digitalisation technology is equipping mobility to be a driver of truly smart cities in the Middle East.
"The Hesan Alkhaleej is a premium intercity train; our vision of a real alternative to road and air travel in the Gulf region," said Joerg Scheifler, senior executive vice-president, Mobility, Siemens Middle East. "Mobility between cities is a key driver of economic stimulus, and while there are already a number of modern city transit systems in the region, we see the need arising for fast, safe, luxurious and efficient intercity services to link these together."
 "Autodesk's BIM technology can help the Middle East rail industry reduce risk and deliver more successful and profitable projects, thereby strengthening and positioning the region as one of the world's leading innovation hubs for sustainable transport infrastructure." said Louay Dahmash, head of Autodesk Middle East.
- isacjohn@khaleejtimes.com


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