arabic.euronews.com
Lebanon's Abandoned Railway: A Symbol of Lost Potential and Economic Crisis
The remnants of Lebanon's first railway, built in 1895, stand as a testament to a lost era of prosperity and highlight the country's current economic struggles, particularly in transportation.
- What is the economic impact of Lebanon's defunct railway system?
- The absence of a functional railway system costs Lebanon an estimated 5-10% of its annual GDP, according to the Lebanese Institute for Market Studies. This translates to $1.5-3 billion annually in road accident costs and the consumption of approximately 850,000 liters of fuel daily, much of which is used by inefficient private transportation. A modern railway system could significantly reduce these costs and pollution by up to 23%.
- How could the restoration of Lebanon's railway system contribute to broader economic and social improvements?
- Reviving the railway network could alleviate Lebanon's housing crisis by enabling people to live farther from Beirut while commuting easily, thus reducing pressure on the capital. Furthermore, reconnecting Beirut's port to Damascus and the Gulf through a railway would revitalize trade, making Beirut a regional logistics hub. Studies suggest that building a modern network would cost around $6 billion, a fraction of the billions spent on the ineffective electricity sector.
- What are the main obstacles hindering the revival of Lebanon's railway system, and what is the likelihood of its restoration?
- Political division and corruption are the primary obstacles. Despite the potential economic benefits and the symbolic importance of the railway, the lack of political will and the perception of state institutions as "private farms" make the project's realization highly uncertain. However, experts believe that investment in the railway is crucial for Lebanon's economic recovery, given its strategic geographic location and the urgent need for sustainable transportation solutions.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of Lebanon's railway system, highlighting both its historical significance and current dilapidated state. While it emphasizes the potential benefits of revitalizing the railway, it also acknowledges the significant political and economic obstacles. The narrative structure doesn't overtly favor a particular viewpoint, although the concluding paragraphs lean towards optimism regarding the future.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. While the descriptions of the current state of the railway ('ruins', 'rusty carriages') are evocative, they aren't inherently biased. The quotes from experts are presented fairly.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including alternative perspectives on the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of rebuilding the railway. While it mentions the cost estimate of \$6 billion, it doesn't discuss potential alternative transportation solutions or a detailed breakdown of the economic analysis. It also doesn't delve into potential environmental impacts of rebuilding the railway.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article focuses on the potential revitalization of Lebanon's railway system. Rebuilding this infrastructure would directly contribute to improved transportation, economic growth, and reduced environmental impact, aligning with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure). The potential for regional trade and connectivity further strengthens this connection. The text explicitly discusses the economic benefits, job creation, and reduced pollution associated with a functioning railway system.