Israel has started works on the NIS2.8bn ($790.9m) rail line to be laid parallel to Highway 85, linking Acre and Carmiel in the northern part of the country.

The 23 km track project includes two new train stations at Moshav Ahihud in the Western Galilee and at the entrance to Carmiel, as well as the construction of several bridges and tunnels.

Bridges will be built over the Na'aman and Hilazon streams, diverting the latter over the course of 900 m, and raising Highway 4 for a length of 1.2 km above the planned train tracks.

The new track will allow trains to run at a speed of 160 km/hr.

Train services between the cities are expected to start in five years, according to Railway Technology.