Israeli cabinet approves construction of high-speed train line between Tel Aviv and Eilat [View all]
New rail line aims to link Israel's periphery to the center; length of trip between Tel Aviv and Eilat would be reduced to two and a half hours.
Israel's cabinet on Sunday morning approved construction of a new high-speed train line between Tel Aviv and the southern port city of Eilat.
The electrified rail line will reach top speeds of 186 miles (300 km) per hour, allowing it to complete the trip in two and a half hours. The 220-mile long (350 km) route will include 63 bridges and five tunnels
"For 63 years, there has been talk about linking up the periphery to the center, but nothing has been done," said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, adding that the new rail line would "change the face of the country."
Netanyahu emphasized the line's advantages as an overland route for passenger and cargo traffic. "We have the ability to create an alternative transportation route that bypasses the Suez Canal – this is an insurance policy," he said.
http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/israeli-cabinet-approves-construction-of-high-speed-train-line-between-tel-aviv-and-eilat-1.411212
The Europeans get it. The Japanese get it, The Israelis get it. WHY DO WE GET HIGH SPEED RAIL IS A GOOD THIS?
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