Gov't OK clears ways for Tel Aviv-Jerusalem fast train

After long delays and a NIS 4 billion cost overrun, the railway line is due to be completed by early 2017.

The cabinet yesterday approved the supplementary outline plan for the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem high-speed train. The approval clears the way for work on the section of the line through the Judean Mountains from Sha'ar Hagai, through Nahal Yitle, and Emek Ha'arazim at the western entrance of Jerusalem.

The National Planning and Building Commission approved the route in August 2009, after a long struggle with environmental groups, who argued that the route would cause irreversible damage to the unique ecological value of Nahal Yitle.

After long delays and a NIS 4 billion cost overrun, the railway line is due to be completed by early 2017. The project's authorizing authority, a special body set up by the National Planning Commission, still has to submit details plans and an environmental impact statement for the section of the railway from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem. This special body includes representatives of the Ministries of Interior, Transport, and Environmental Protection, and professional and environmental groups.

Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on January 18, 2010

© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2010

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