Green light in Israel: The revolution to reduce road congestion is underway

Another significant step for strengthening the North: The National Planning and Building Council approved today (Tuesday) the transfer of the plan for the establishment of a new rail freight terminal in Karmiel to the Ministry of Transport for review by district committees and public objections. This move brings the northern region closer to realizing a vision of logistical competitiveness and a massive reduction in the volume of heavy traffic on the roads.

The planned terminal will be built adjacent to the future industrial zone of Karmiel and the Karmiel-Kiryat Shmona railway route. The facility will operate as an advanced synchronization and transport center, including loading and unloading complexes, logistics warehouses, and operational support buildings. The Ministry of Transport identifies this project as a growth lever that will connect production and industrial lines in the North directly to seaports and commercial centers in the center of the country.

One of the main advantages of the project is clearing the roads of congestion. Transferring significant cargo volumes from road to rail will reduce the presence of trucks on main routes, ease traffic jams, and improve road safety. Furthermore, the project will lead to a reduction in emissions from heavy-duty vehicles, leading to a significant decrease in air pollution and noise, alongside reducing the wear and tear of road infrastructure.

In addition, a faster and cheaper supply chain is expected to reduce transport costs for companies and factories — a step that may trickle down and contribute to reducing the cost of living.

With the plan moving to the stage of public objections and district committee review, Karmiel is positioning itself as a strategic logistics hub that connects environmental development with economic growth in the Galilee.