Turkey has announced intentions to restore parts of the historic Hejaz Railway in Syria, reconnecting rail lines to Damascus. This initiative, as revealed by Transportation Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu, is part of Turkey’s reconstruction efforts in Syria following years of civil war. The railway, originally built in the early 20th century to facilitate the pilgrimage to Mecca, has faced numerous challenges, including past sabotage and the need for significant repairs.
Turkey has announced plans to restore segments of the historic Hejaz Railway in Syria, reviving the connection between Turkish rail lines and Damascus. Turkish Transportation Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu shared this development during a meeting with journalists, emphasizing the need to assess the current situation swiftly and initiate restoration efforts. Uraloglu also noted that several railway sections stretching to the Hejaz region have not been operational for an extended period, referring to prior passenger train journeys made between 2009 and 2010. He acknowledged potential challenges, particularly in regions where railway infrastructure has been compromised, such as Iraq.
This initiative coincides with Turkey’s broader efforts to assist in the reconstruction of Syria following over a decade of civil conflict. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has instructed ministers to evaluate weaknesses and provide support for the Syrian infrastructure. This comes after the establishment of a caretaker government in Damascus, which seeks to maintain essential services after the recent displacement of President Bashar al-Assad, amid a growing rebel offensive.
Historically, the Hejaz Railway was envisioned by Sultan Abdulhamid II of the Ottoman Empire in 1900 as a connection between Istanbul and Mecca. Constructed swiftly and predominantly financed through Muslim donations, it aimed to facilitate the Hajj pilgrimage while strengthening Ottoman governance over distant territories. Despite its ambitious intentions, the railway was hindered by frequent sabotage—chiefly during the British-supported Arab Revolt—resulting in its completion falling short of Mecca by approximately 400 kilometers when World War One disrupted its progress.
The Hejaz Railway represents a significant historical infrastructure project initiated during the late Ottoman Empire. Its construction was aimed at reinforcing Ottoman influence in the Arabian Peninsula by providing a vital transport link for Hajj pilgrims. The railway was fraught with challenges, including sabotage and geopolitical tensions, ultimately halting its completion and operationalization. Today, Turkey’s renewed interest in restoring parts of this railway can be seen against the backdrop of regional reconstruction and the stabilization of post-civil war Syria. The project reflects Turkey’s commitment to both historical legacy and contemporary geopolitical interests in the Middle East.
In conclusion, Turkey’s initiative to restore sections of the historic Hejaz Railway underlines its ongoing efforts to engage with Syria as it emerges from a protracted civil war. This restoration aims to reconnect vital transport links and enhance regional infrastructure while addressing the problems posed by infrastructure decay and potential theft of railway materials. As the situation in Syria evolves, Turkey’s actions signify not only a nod to historical connections but also a strategic positioning within the changing landscape of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
