Development engine for Lima-Barranca

On February 7, the first step was taken for the construction of the Lima – Barranca railway, which will pass through Supe, Huaral, Chancay and, finally, Ancón. This work will directly benefit 4.5 million inhabitants and indirectly 12 million citizens. Although the cost of the work has not yet been determined, the pre-investment study has already been approved, and with this the details of this ambitious construction will be known.

The project emerges as a fundamental piece to enhance connectivity, economic growth and logistical efficiency in the region. At the moment it is known that it will also bring an efficient mass cargo transportation system that will be fast and safe.

On its way through the metropolitan area of ​​Lima and Callao, it will have an interchange with mass passenger transportation systems such as the Basic Metro Network and the Metropolitan. This mega-project seeks to establish a modern railway corridor between the country’s capital and the province of Barranca.
It is necessary to know the benefits of this initiative, the importance of executing a detailed pre-investment study, as well as the possible factors that could delay its implementation and the negative consequences that this would have for the country’s logistics.

Railroad Benefits
The Lima – Barranca Railway project consists of 245 kilometers of route and promises a series of benefits both in the short and long term.
Firstly, it will allow a significant improvement in passenger mobility, reducing travel times and providing a safe and efficient alternative to road transport. It will not only facilitate the movement of people between Lima and Barranca, but will also open new development opportunities for communities along the route.

Secondly, it will be a catalyst for the economic development of the region. By facilitating the transportation of cargo, especially agricultural and fishing products, logistics costs will be reduced and conditions for export will be improved, which will benefit local producers and contribute to boosting the regional economy. Likewise, the railway infrastructure will create employment both during its construction and in its operation and maintenance, generating a multiplier effect.
Another great advantage is the development of new areas of urban development, production, logistics and services in the area of ​​influence of the interurban system.

In addition, the railway will promote environmental sustainability by encouraging the use of public transport and the reduction of carbon emissions associated with road transport. By diverting some freight traffic from roads to rail, traffic congestion will be alleviated and traffic accidents will be reduced, which will have a positive impact on road safety and the quality of life of the region’s inhabitants.

Importance of pre-investment study:
Before proceeding with the execution of the project, it is essential to carry out an exhaustive pre-investment study that thoroughly evaluates its technical, economic, social and environmental feasibility. This study will identify costs and mitigate possible risks, as well as optimize the design and planning of the project to ensure its long-term success.

The pre-investment study will determine the optimal layout, taking into account factors such as the topography of the land, population density and the location of existing infrastructure. This will ensure it is technically and economically efficient, minimizing construction costs and maximizing community benefits.

Secondly, it will evaluate the socio-environmental impact of the project and develop mitigation and compensation measures to minimize its environmental footprint and protect the rights of affected communities. This is especially important in a region like Barranca, which is home to rich biodiversity and vulnerable communities that could be affected by construction.

Likewise, the pre-investment study will make it possible to more accurately estimate its costs and benefits, as well as identify appropriate financing sources and develop a solid business plan that guarantees its long-term economic viability. This is crucial given the scope and magnitude, which will require significant investment from both the public and private sectors.

Delay factors
Despite the potential benefits of the Lima – Barranca Railway, its implementation could face a series of challenges and obstacles that delay its execution and put its long-term success at risk.
The winning consortium must carry out an in-depth study to avoid addendums that delay and make the works more expensive. Another of the main risks is the lack of financing and sufficient resources for its construction. Securing financing may require negotiating agreements and strategic alliances at the national and international levels.

Another factor is the opposition of certain interest groups such as local communities, environmental groups or economic sectors affected by the project. It is important to address these concerns in a transparent and participatory manner, involving stakeholders in the planning and decision-making process and developing mitigation and compensation measures that meet their needs and protect their rights.

In addition, bureaucracy and red tape can slow down the process, especially when it comes to obtaining environmental permits and authorizations and acquiring land. It is essential to simplify and streamline these processes, eliminating unnecessary obstacles and promoting coordination and collaboration between the different entities involved in the project.

The delay in the implementation of the Lima – Barranca Railway would have serious consequences for the country’s logistics, affecting the competitiveness of companies and the efficiency of the cargo transportation system. Road transport would continue to be the main means of transporting goods between Lima and Barranca, which would increase logistics costs and vehicle congestion in the region.

In summary, the railway represents a unique opportunity to enhance economic development and logistical efficiency in the region. It is essential that, after the pre-investment study, the government develops the project quickly and puts together the file to call for a tender and deliver the good proposal. It is vital to ensure execution to make this transformative project a reality and ensure a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.