The Transportation and Communications Ministry (MTC) announced an investment plan to renovate and privatize the Huancayo-Huancavelica ‘Macho’ train route.
The MTC announced it will invest USD $284 million in renovating the famous ‘Macho’ train, which spans the distance from Huancayo to Huancavelica. ProInversion, the country’s investment promotion agency, will select a private concessionaire for the project in December, with the restoration work to begin in 2021.
The Andean railroad covers a distance of 128 kilometers at an elevation of 2,819 and 3,680 meters above sea level. It’s been the primary communication vehicle for 142 communities living in the area since it began running 93 years ago. The modernization project will benefit a population of 250,000 inhabitants.
The investment plan includes major restoration of the railway tracks, changing 15 bridges, expanding gauges to 38 tunnels, and drainage work. Seven stations will be modernized, and a rail yard will be built. Signaling and telecommunication systems will also be set into place.
Two new locomotives, three passenger wagons (there will be five total) and five rail sheds will be built. The service will run seven days a week and will circulate five times a day at a speed of 96 kilometers per hour.
The project needs the approval of the economy ministry, transport regulators and the comptroller’s office.
In 2018 Israel Lazo, congressman for Junin, warned that the privatization of the route would inevitably raise ticket prices, which currently starts at S/. 9, creating a barrier for the local population which is one of the poorest in the country.
Source: LaRepulica.pe
Cover photo: Andina.pe
