7 months ago
Alexandria's historic tram to close for renovation
In Alexandria, Egypt, a very old and beloved tram system is going to be closed for a big upgrade.
The trams, which have been running for over 150 years, will be replaced with a new, faster, and more modern light rail system.
Some people are excited because the new system will be quicker and can carry more passengers.
Others are sad because they love the old trams and worry about the changes.
The project is expected to take two years and cost a lot of money.
People are also concerned about how the construction might affect traffic and the city's look.
The old trams are not just a way to get around; they are a part of the city's history and memories for many people.
Alexandria's historic Raml tram line, over 150 years old, will undergo a major renovation to become a digitally controlled light rail system.
The project aims to double the current speed and boost passenger capacity, with an expected travel time reduction of over half an hour.
Some commuters welcome the renovation, while others worry about increased ticket prices, construction-related congestion, and the loss of a historic feature.
The European Investment Bank and France’s development agency are providing funding for the project, totaling about 592 million euros ($708 million).
The renovation is expected to take two years, during which replacement buses will be deployed to limit disruption.
- Who
- Authorities in Alexandria, Egypt, including the National Authority for Tunnels
- What
- Renovation of the historic Alexandria tramway to replace it with a digitally controlled light rail system
- Where
- Alexandria, Egypt, specifically the Raml line
- When
- Starting next week, with an expected duration of two years
- Why
- To modernize the transportation system, increase speed, and boost passenger capacity
Key facts
- Location
- Alexandria, Egypt
- Current Tram Line Length
- 14 kilometers (9 miles)
- Project Cost
- 592 million euros ($708 million)
- Funding Sources
- European Investment Bank (138 million euros), France’s development agency
- Expected Duration of Renovation
- Two years
- Current Ticket Price
- 5 Egyptian pounds (about $0.10)
- Expected Travel Time Reduction
- Over half an hour
Quotes
Fatma Hussein
A 63-year-old retired agricultural engineer and long-time tram rider
“It’s not just a means of transport. It’s our memories … our history. You can develop it, but why stop it? Why deprive employees, students and the people who use it all the time?”
theprint.in
Alaa Khaled
An Alexandrian novelist who grew up near the tramline
“Even now, I still take the whole journey and gaze at the villas and trees as a window onto the history of the city, or just sit down and read.”
theprint.in
Yasmin Kandil
An architect and urban mobility specialist
“I worried that the light rail project, which includes elevating parts of the line to bypass intersections, will prioritise vehicles and speed while distorting the city’s aesthetics.”
theprint.in
Mahmoud Ramadan
A 52-year-old tram driver who has worked on the tram network since 1997
“Not everyone will understand. It’s your home and your life for 30 years.”
theprint.in
Sources
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