This 500 km long railway section runs across the area of Tunisia and Libya and it is part of the railway line interconnecting the North-African countries. The planned narrow gauge line runs parallel to the existing narrow gauge railway line at the initial section (between Sfax and Gabes), in order to minimize the use of agricultural land.

The planned line provides connection with the narrow gauge railway and industrial sidings at the industrial site of Gabes. The subsequent 100 km section runs on hilly area and crosses a number of permanent and temporary water courses flowing in north-south direction. There is a long flatland section after the ancient Berber settlement Medenin, and then the line arrives at Libya in a hilly area at the border station Ras Jedir. From here the line runs across a flatland up to the capital city of Tripoli.

The alignment of the railway track, as well as its substructure and superstructure have been designed in accordance with the UIC recommendations, and the design has been approved by the local authorities. In addition to the railway line the design included water engineering, electric power supply, overhead lines, signalling installation and telecommunication.