Despite feasibility studies conducted by the Ministry of Public Works that conclude idea is not practicable, Technical Secretary of the Presidency Rafael Calderon announced the start of construction of the Haina (Santo Domingo) train to Santiago, at a cost of US$325 million. The government granted the concession to the Consorcio Ferroviario Nacional, and guaranteed the profitability of the investment. A tender was not held to select the builder of the mega-project, however, according to a report in Hoy newspaper, the Indian Railway Service of Engineers is the technical partner in the construction.
The newspaper also mentions that engineers Felipe Frias and Roberto Echavarria are the chief executives of the concessionaire.
Upon making the announcement at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday, 26 February, Calderon said that railway stations will be built, complete with shops and green spaces over the 175 kilometer path. The railway will serve both passengers and cargo freight.
Calderon explained that the Indian government is assisting in the development of this project.