Quantum Australia welcomes SYSTRA as an Industry Support Partner. Quantum Australia welcomes SYSTRA as an Industry Support Partner, supporting connections between emerging quantum technologies and the infrastructure systems that underpin modern society. SYSTRA ANZ is part of the SYSTRA Group, a global engineering and consulting organisation with more than 65 years of experience designing, delivering and integrating transport and infrastructure projects across more than 80 countries. Globally, SYSTRA has contributed to 1 in 2 metro and high-speed rail systems. Experience across complex infrastructure environments. In Australia and New Zealand, SYSTRA works across transport, utilities, energy and critical infrastructure, contributing to projects across the full lifecycle, from planning and feasibility through to design, integration, testing, commissioning and asset management. Capabilities across these areas are relevant as emerging technologies, including quantum, begin to intersect with real-world systems. As quantum technologies progress toward deployment, their integration into large, interconnected infrastructure environments, such as transport networks, energy systems and communications, will require coordinated approaches across engineering, risk management and operations. Addressing complex operational challenges. Across its work, SYSTRA engages with a range of technical challenges common to modern infrastructure systems. These include operating in GPS or GNSS-denied environments, such as tunnels and underground networks, improving positioning and communications capability, and supporting safe and efficient rail operations. Other areas of focus include transport network modelling, timetable optimisation and disruption analysis, as well as the development of digital twin approaches for infrastructure planning and operations. These types of challenges can involve large-scale data processing and complex simulations, where emerging computing approaches may be explored alongside existing methods. Quantum Australia CEO Petra Andrén said: "As quantum technologies continue to evolve, understanding where they may have relevance in real-world systems is an important part of the broader ecosystem effort. Engagement with organisations working across infrastructure and engineering helps inform where these technologies could be explored over time, particularly in complex, data-intensive environments." Systra Executive General Manager Chris Hurst said: "At SYSTRA we specialise in complex infrastructure and critical systems that connect communities. The infrastructure we design, deliver, integrate, and then maintain are becoming larger, more complex, and inter-connected." Quantum Australia want to continue to be at the forefront of responsible innovation. So, Quantum Australia is very pleased to be working with Quantum Australia on how this exciting technology can be applied to helping address these challenges." Supporting ecosystem-wide collaboration. Quantum Australia brings together industry, research, government and investment to support the development and adoption of quantum technologies. Engagement with organisations working across infrastructure and engineering supports a broader understanding of how these technologies may be applied in operational environments. By connecting emerging quantum capability with established infrastructure expertise, the ecosystem is better positioned to explore pathways from research and development toward practical application. A growing national ecosystem. Australia's quantum ecosystem continues to expand, with increasing collaboration between researchers, startups, technology providers and industry end users. Alongside advances in computing, sensing and communications, focus is increasingly turning to what it takes to operationalise these technologies across sectors including energy, defence, healthcare, finance and advanced manufacturing. Programs like the Industry Support Partner Program support this shift, bringing together the capabilities needed to move quantum from research into real-world systems. Participation in the Industry Support Partner Program does not imply endorsement of any organisation's products or services by Quantum Australia.

Al Mashair Metro launches first journey for Hajj 2026 pilgrims. Efficient, eco-friendly Al Mashair Metro revolutionizes pilgrimage transport, enhancing ease, safety, and sustainability for millions of Hajj pilgrims. * Publish date: 7 hours ago Reading time: two min read The Al Mashair Metro has launched its first journeys for the 2026 Hajj season, marking a significant step in providing efficient and sustainable transport for pilgrims. The metro connects the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, offering a modern and eco-friendly solution to facilitate the movement of over two million passengers during the pilgrimage. A high-capacity, eco-friendly transport system. Each train on the Al Mashair Metro can accommodate up to 3,000 passengers, with an operational capacity of 72,000 passengers per hour. This season, the metro is set to operate 2,000 journeys, significantly reducing the need for 50,000 bus trips and easing traffic congestion around the holy sites. Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has completed maintenance and preparation works for the fleet of 17 trains, including upgrades to signaling, communication systems, and the control center. These efforts ensure the metro operates at the highest standards of efficiency and safety, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom's commitment to improving transport services during Hajj. A smarter, greener Hajj experience. The electric-powered Al Mashair Metro is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's efforts to create a smart and sustainable mobility system for pilgrims. By relying on zero-carbon emissions, the metro not only reduces travel time but also contributes to environmental sustainability. The 18-kilometer metro line includes nine stations, with three stations each in Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat, in addition to Jamarat Station. Trains reach speeds of up to 80 km/h and cover the distance between Arafat Station 1 and Mina Station 3 in just 20 minutes, ensuring swift and reliable transport during peak periods. A decade of service and innovation. Since its launch in November 2010, the Al Mashair Metro has played a pivotal role in facilitating pilgrims' movement between the holy sites. Its high capacity, efficiency, and eco-friendly design have made it one of the world's most advanced transport systems for large-scale events. With this year's operations, the metro continues to uphold its reputation as a key component of Hajj logistics, ensuring pilgrims can perform their rituals with ease, comfort, and reassurance. As Saudi Arabia advances toward its Vision 2030 goals, the Al Mashair Metro stands as a testament to the Kingdom's dedication to innovation and sustainability in serving its guests.