Rail-road terminals location with interconnected rail network of West African countries

From 2006 to 2012, the port of Cotonou improves its performance thanks to the Millennium Challenge Account program, through modernization of port facilities and management systems. But the project not concerns transport corridors and hinterland access. However, no port can develop without its links with its hinterland. That’s why we analyse the issues relating to the hinterland transport development with respect to the with interconnected rail network of West African countries. This network project allows us to build up a multimodal/intermodal transport network from and to the port of Cotonou since inland terminals may have an important role in enlarging port market areas through enhancing hinterland penetration capacity. Our findings show that if two rail-road terminals are located, one in Dosso and the other one in Parakou, it will allow a saving of about 112 million euro, promote local economies and sustainability.