In the vast expanse of the Sahara desert, a remarkable train cuts through the hot sands, connecting distant regions with its iron tracks. Known as the Mauritanian Express, this train holds the title of the world’s longest freight train, stretching across the desert for a staggering distance.
Spanning a length of 2.1 kilometers, the Mauritanian Express embarked on its inaugural journey back in 1963. Since then, it has been a lifeline for the desert communities, traversing a distance of 704 kilometers in approximately 20 hours. Laden with 17 thousand metric tons of iron ore, this train serves as a vital transporter of resources, with enough iron to construct an entire Eiffel Tower.
Despite its primary role as a freight train, the Mauritanian Express also caters to passengers, albeit in iron carriages. Along its route, temporary stations are erected using tents, providing essential stops for travelers journeying through the desert. In a region where only 0.2 percent of the land is arable and the average temperature soars to 40 degrees Celsius, the train becomes a vital link for accessing food and supplies.
For the inhabitants of the Sahara, the Mauritanian Express represents their sole connection to the outside world. In times of drought, when the desert becomes inhospitable, sections of the Bedouin and Arab populations seek refuge near the train tracks. A small city accommodating up to eight thousand people has been established to provide shelter and sustenance.
The train’s significance extends beyond its transportation role; it also facilitates commerce and trade along its route. As the train carrying iron ore makes its journey, local residents seize the opportunity to exchange goods. Fish, caught from distant waters, are brought and sold approximately 650 kilometers away, highlighting the train’s role in supporting local economies.
Mauretania, a West African country abundant in natural resources, relies heavily on iron ore as its primary source of income. The Mauritanian Express serves as the backbone of this industry, ferrying vast quantities of ore across the desert landscape. Its immense weight and capacity make it a formidable presence, earning it the distinction of being the heaviest train in the world.
