SNIM diesel locomotives — typically 2–3 locomotives per train; recent modernization includes new motive power as part of EIB $512M rail upgrade program
Locomotive Weight
100+ tonnes
Track Gauge
1,435 mm (standard gauge)
Braking Technology
Air brakes on locomotives and wagons
Route Engineering Challenges
Sand encroachment on tracks requiring constant maintenance
Extreme temperature variations (freezing nights to scorching 50°C days)
Remote 704km route through uninhabited Sahara desert
Water scarcity for crew and passengers
Crossing the Polisario-controlled Free Zone of Western Sahara
Train Length
Typically 2.5–3 km (200+ wagons); among the longest trains in the world
Cargo Capacity
Up to 22,000 tonnes of iron ore per train
Passenger Car
Single 'Dweira' carriage attached at rear of some freight trains; managed by SOMASERT
Modernization
$512M European Investment Bank funding for rail modernization, security upgrades, and infrastructure improvements (ongoing)