Jerusalem, 15 January, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The Ministry of Transportation and the Cross-Israel Railway Company have officially submitted the Southern Railway (Goral) Plan, marking a key step in connecting the Negev to central Israel.

The 13-kilometer railway, featuring a 4.5-kilometer double tunnel under the Goral Hills, will link the Tel Aviv–Beer-Sheva line to Ashkelon–Beer-Sheva tracks, improving passenger travel, freight transport, and safety by diverting hazardous cargo outside Beer-Sheva. A new accessible station with bus and bicycle facilities will serve the region.

Transportation Minister Miri Regev said the project “strengthens the Negev, encourages development, employment and growth, and provides residents with a quality connection to Israel’s economic centers.”

Pesach Benson

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