RIYADH — Saudi Railways Organization (SRO) CEO Muhammad Al-Suwaiket launched on Monday at Dammam passenger train station four new push-pull passenger trains to join the current fleet between Riyadh and Dammam. The ceremony was attended by Spanish Ambassador to the Kingdom Joaquin Perez and CEO of CAF Company. The four push-pull train units have been manufactured in Spain by CAF, a leading global rolling stock manufacturer, as an integrated plan to support and update the SRO's passenger train fleet. Al-Suwaiket said the new push-pull units is provided with high-quality specifications, performance and techniques in consistence with the Kingdom's environmental and climatic conditions. They can run up to 180 kmph even during extreme weather conditions. The total seating capacity for each unit is 274 seats. The trains' outer structure is made of stainless steel to withstand high temperature and sand. The push-pull units are also equipped with the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) to protect trains from accidents and operational errors. Special attention has been given to passengers with reduced mobility by providing special area for wheelchairs and PMR toilet. Al-Suwaiket said the new push-pull trains is a quantum leap in the railway transport services for SRO. The units are equipped with an advanced system of safety and security, and each unit consists of five passenger cars and one traction car. The seating area is divided into two classes provided with increased passenger capacity, luggage facility, air-conditions, passenger information system, event recorder, wireless internet access, video and audio channels, smoke detectors, visual display screens (TV) and screens showing the journey data such as the station name, travel destination and speed. It should be noted that the SRO Push-Pull Trains have come at a time as the SRO has completed the project of doubling the passenger main line No (1) which will contribute in providing a safe environment in the train traffic between Dammam and Riyadh, helping to shorten the journey time by train between the eastern and central regions.
