ALSTOM has signed a five-year technical support and spare part supply agreement (TSSSA) with Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR). Under the contract, which is worth Riyals 300m ($US 80m), Alstom will work to improve the performance and reliability of diesel locomotives operating on SAR’s east-west freight corridor.
Maintenance processes will be digitised and efficiency improved through the deployment of Alstom’s HealthHub system to continuously monitor locomotive performance in real time.
This will enable SAR to undertake predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and optimising fleet availability. These measures will ensure the long-term efficiency and reliability of the diesel locomotives operating on the east-west freight corridor.
As well as technical assistance and the supply of spare parts, the contract also includes the provision of tailored training programmes for SAR staff.
The east-west corridor connects the ports of Dammam and Jubail with the inland freight terminal at Riyadh. Alstom says that improving the efficiency of freight operations will directly support the Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the national economy and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub.
“By empowering SAR with cutting-edge technologies and knowledge transfer, we are fostering a competitive and sustainable sector while enriching local talent and expertise within the kingdom's railway industry,” says Mr Mohamed Khalil, managing director of Alstom’s Middle East regional headquarters.
“This collaboration will provide SAR's engineers and technicians with invaluable hands-on experience, bolstering their capabilities and solidifying their vital role in the Kingdom's ambitious growth plans.”
