Egyptian National Railways is inviting companies to prequalify by 1 November for a contract to upgrade the signalling systems for the railway line between Beni Suef and Asyut in Upper Egypt.

The scope also covers the design, supply and installation, including construction, phasing, testing and commissioning.

Egyptian National Railways has received financing from the World Bank towards the cost of the project.

The contract is expected to be signed in November 2012, with construction due to start in December. The railway line is expected to be in operation four years after the start of the contract.