Alstom delivers first two trains for Cairo Monorail project
The Innovia 300 monorail system is said to allow the fast construction of high-capacity lines at lower costs
The first two Innovia 300 trains for the Cairo Monorail project have been delivered, Alstom has announced. The trains were completed at the firm’s Derby UK factory, with propulsion systems application led by Alstom’s site in Trapaga, Spain.
According to a statement from Alstom, the dispatch of the first eight fully automated, driverless cars out of 70 trains (a total of 280 cars) is a major milestone in the Cairo Monorail project, Egypt’s first two monorail lines. The lines link the New Capital City and 6th October City to Greater Cairo.
In August 2019, an Alstom-led consortium composed of Orascom Construction and Arab Contractors signed a $3.18bn contract to design, implement, operate, and maintain the two lines. The project includes a 54km line connecting the New Administrative City with East Cairo and a second 42km line connecting 6th of October City with Giza, the statement noted.
“I am proud of the project team for the successful delivery of the first two trains to the National Authority of Tunnels. The monorail will be a game changer for residents, decreasing commute times, congestion, pollution and carbon emissions. It is an important part of the government’s ongoing efforts to redefine Egypt’s urban future. A future, we are committed to help actualize through safe, smart and green solutions” said Andrew DeLeone, president Alstom Africa, Middle East & Central Asia.
The statement noted that both lines of the project are expected to open in 2023. After the construction phase is completed, the Alstom-led consortium will provide 30 years of operation and maintenance (O&M) services for both lines.
Once maximum capacity is achieved, each of the two Cairo lines will be able to transport 45,000 passengers per hour in each direction.
