The Egyptian government and Canada’s Bombardier Inc. have discussed plans to build a 35 kilometer monorail on the borders of Cairo, a project that was previously announced in mid-2015, Cabinet spokesperson Hossam Kawish stated, reported Ahram Online.
The 35 kilometer train is expected to connect several areas, including 6th of October City with areas of the Giza governorate. Further, the project is expected to support economic and housing projects led by the government.
The rail project is also expected to facilitate transportation and ease congestion, Prime Minister Sherif Ismail was quoted as saying by state news agency MENA.
The project is considered eco friendly, and is expected to be implemented and administered by the government and Bombardier.
Discussions were undertaken between the ministers of housing, transportation, and investment with Bombardier regarding cost, funding and different phases of the project.
Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities Mostafa Madbouly stated that the project will cost $1.5 billion and will receive funding from a 14-year loan. The project is expected to be completed in 2018.
Bombardier is known for providing rail vehicles, signaling and control equipment, and manufacturing planes.