ALGIERS, Dec 10 (Xinhua) -- China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) said on Wednesday it has completed track-laying on the PK330 Bridge, Africa's longest heavy-haul railway bridge, marking a key milestone in Algeria's Western Mining Railway project.
The 6-km bridge, which crosses shifting sand and gravel in Tindouf province about 1,250 km southwest of Algiers, is the most technically complex section of the 575-km railway linking Bechar province with the Gara Djebilet iron ore deposit, one of the world's largest. Track-laying was finished on Monday evening.
CRCC said Chinese and Algerian teams worked in harsh Sahara Desert conditions, including extreme heat, sandstorms, and acute water shortages. Construction methods were adjusted, with concrete poured at night and cooling techniques used to ensure quality and safety.
The bridge's main structure was completed in just one year. CRCC said the project has created more than 7,000 local jobs and trained over 1,000 skilled workers, earning praise from senior Algerian officials.
The railway project includes 19 bridges with a combined length of 12.2 km.
The Western Mining Railway is a flagship Belt and Road project designed to link mines, industrial zones, and ports in southwestern Algeria. Once completed, it is expected to strengthen transport links and support regional economic development.
