Infrastructure budget approved

Algeria has allocated 980 billion dinars (approximately 7,265 billion USD) for infrastructure development in its 2027 budget law, according to reports. The budget, presented to the finance and budget committee of the National People's Assembly (APN) on October 21, includes 322 billion dinars in engagement authorizations, with more than 290 billion dinars designated for public investments and about 31.6 billion for the functioning of services.

Infrastructure development plans

The infrastructure development plans include the modernization and maintenance of the road network, the construction and reconstruction of civil engineering works, and interventions on airport infrastructure. The ministry's objective is to preserve existing equipment while continuing projects that can improve the movement of people and goods.

National fund for weather damage

The 2027 budget law also proposes the creation of a National Fund for repairing damage caused by weather, intended to mobilize resources each year to repair infrastructure without waiting for new budget operations. This fund aims to address the increasing need for rapid repairs due to extreme weather events.

Railway projects highlighted

Railway projects are a major aspect of the program. The Eastern mining line, which extends over 422 km on double-track electrified lines, is expected to reach a transport capacity of about 23 million tons of phosphate and iron per year. According to the minister's balance sheet, 174 km were already in operation, while 127 km were in the completion and technical testing phase.

Progress on North-South railway

The government also intends to continue the development of the North-South railway corridor linking Algiers to Tamanrasset. Of the 1,925 km of sections detailed by the minister, 308 km are in operation and 42 km are under construction. Work is being prepared on 924 km, while 651 km are subject to tenders.

Maritime infrastructure developments

Maritime infrastructure is also a focus, with the Annaba port expansion project including dredging basins to depths between 16 and 27 meters, extending the maritime breakwater by 1,400 meters, and developing an 82-hectare platform. It also includes the construction of a new 1,600-meter mineral quay. These developments aim to develop port capacities and facilitate operations related to mineral transport.

Challenges in implementation

Beyond the amounts included in the budget proposal, the implementation of the program itself is a challenge. Railway projects, roads, highways, airports, and ports have different levels of progress, requiring both development investments and maintenance costs. The realization of the announced operations will depend on the effective mobilization of funds and the ability to follow the roadmaps.

Ensuring operational infrastructure

The challenge for the authorities will be to convert the planned credits into operational infrastructure while ensuring its maintenance. This requires coordination between various government agencies, private sector participation, and effective project management to avoid delays and cost overruns.