Egypt Operates Second Special Train for Sudanese Voluntary Return

National Railways Authority has announced the operation of a second special train to facilitate the voluntary return of Sudanese citizens currently residing in Egypt, following the completed operations of their first special train earlier this month. The move comes in response to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has displaced millions since April 2023.

Train number 1940 departed from Cairo Station on Monday, July 28th, and then arrived at High Dam Station in Aswan on the same day. From there, returnees are expected to continue their journey into Sudan via river or overland routes.

The special service includes an additional baggage carriage and will run a return trip from Aswan to Cairo as train number 1945, scheduled to depart at 8:30 PM on Tuesday, July 29th.

Egyptian authorities have waived travel penalties and are providing logistical support for Sudanese nationals in coordination with the voluntary return committee.

Egypt currently hosts more than 5.5 million Sudanese nationals, and is the largest host country for Sudanese refugees. According to the United Nations, over 1.3 million Sudanese have returned to their areas of origin since the start of the conflict, including approximately 320,000 returning from Egypt and South Sudan. However, many parts of Sudan remain insecure, and returns continue to be undertaken on a voluntary basis.