Construction of Eritrean Railway Begins

The construction of the Eritrean Railway marked a pivotal development in the transportation infrastructure of Eritrea. Initiated to connect various regions within the territory, the railway facilitated the movement of goods and people, thereby enhancing trade and economic activities. The railway line extended from the coastal city of Massawa to the highland capital of Asmara, significantly reducing travel time and costs associated with transportation. This project was part of broader development initiatives undertaken by the Italian administration in the newly established colony, aimed at integrating the region into global trade networks and improving local accessibility. The completion of the railway to Saati and its subsequent extension to Asmara represented a major engineering achievement of the time. The Asmara–Massawa Cableway, which was constructed alongside the railway, became notable for being the longest cableway in the world during its operational period. However, the cableway was dismantled by British forces during their administration. The railway and cableway not only transformed the logistics of the region but also played a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of Eritrea, influencing settlement patterns and facilitating the movement of resources essential for development.