Making Aliyah- The train, One Of Israel’s Best Kept Secrets
The Israel Rail Network
Israel Railways is the national railway network of Israel. It was established in 1948 and has since grown to become one of the most efficient and modern railway networks in the Middle East. The Israel Railways serves both passengers and freight transportation needs, connecting cities and towns throughout Israel.
Israel Rail Network: History
The history of the Israel Railways dates back to the late 19th century when the Ottoman Empire built the Jaffa-Jerusalem railway line. This was the first railway line in then Palestine, which was then part of the Ottoman Empire. After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the new government made the development of the railway network a priority, and the Israel Railways was established.
Throughout the decades the network has expanded and improved, with the addition of new lines, upgrading of existing lines, and the introduction of new technologies.
What services and facilities can you expect on The Israel Railways?
1. Ticketing: Passengers can purchase tickets at ticket counters, ticket machines, or online. The network offers various ticket types, including single tickets, daily passes, and monthly passes. The most cost effective to use the train is with the ‘Rav Kav’ card which is usually purchasable in the stations and now mandatory on buses.
2. Accessibility: The Israel Railways is accessible to all, with wheelchair ramps and designated spaces for passengers with disabilities.
3. Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available on most trains, allowing passengers to stay connected during their journey.
4. Charging outlets for laptops and phones etc.
5. Refreshments: Most trains have a snack bar offering a variety of refreshments, including hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and snacks.
6. A/C. Essential air conditioning always making it a comfortable journey
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Israel Rail Network and Routes
The Israel Railways network spans across Israel, connecting major cities and towns. As of 2023 the network has six lines, each serving different regions and destinations.
The lines are as follows:
1. Coastal Line: This line runs from Nahariya in the north to Ashkelon in the south, along the Mediterranean coast. The line serves cities such as Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Netanya.
2. Nahariya – Beit She'an Line: This line connects the northern city of Nahariya to the eastern city of Beit She'an, passing through the Sea of Galilee.
3. Beer Sheva – Dimona Line: This line connects the southern city of Beer Sheva to the town of Dimona in the Negev desert.
4. Rishon LeZion – Ashdod Line: This line connects the cities of Rishon LeZion and Ashdod in central Israel.
5. Ashkelon – Sderot Line: This line connects the coastal city of Ashkelon to the town of Sderot, located near the border with the Gaza Strip.
6. Jerusalem – Ben Gurion Airport Line: This line connects the capital city of Jerusalem to Ben Gurion International Airport, Israel's main airport.
In addition to these lines, there are also several suburban lines serving commuter traffic, as well as freight lines for transporting goods.
Future Developments
The Israel Railways has several ongoing projects aimed at further improving and expanding the network. These include:
1. Electrification: The network is gradually being electrified, with the goal of replacing diesel trains with electric ones. This will reduce emissions and improve efficiency.
2. High-Speed Rail: The network is working on a high-speed rail line connecting Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, reducing travel time between the two cities which is now down to just 28 minutes.