Transport Minister Kamel El Wazir, witnessed the signing of a contract for the implementation of infrastructure and systems works for the Alexandria Metro (Abu Qir – Misr Station) between the National Authority for Tunnels and the Orascom Construction – Colas Rail French Alliance, led by Orascom Construction, Invest-Gate reports.

Chairman of the National Tunnels Authority, Tarek Gewaily, signed the contract on behalf of the authority, while Maged Albert, Chief Operations Officer of Orascom Construction Plc, signed on behalf of Colas Rail French Alliance.

El Wazir emphasized that the implementation of the Abu Qir Metro line comes as part of the presidential interest in Alexandria Governorate and within the Ministry of Transport’s plan to develop rail transport lines within Egypt.

Furthermore, El Wazir confirmed that the Abu Qir line would be converted into an electric metro, extending over 43.2 km and implemented in three separate stages. The first stage extends from Abu Qir Station to Misr Station, over 21.7 km. It extends on the surface track for 6.5 km from Misr Station to just before Zahraa Station, then on an elevated track for 15.2 km to Abu Qir Station. It includes 20 stations, and the operational speed of the line is 100 km/h.

The line will be interconnected with the railway line (Cairo – Alexandria) at Misr Station, the Ramel Tram at Sidi Gaber, and Victoria stations to the Rashid Railway line at Al-Maamoura Station.

Additionally, It is planned to extend the line towards Borg El Arab to connect with the first line of the electric fast train and towards New Abu Qir to connect with the fourth line of the electric train, to integrate public transportation networks in Alexandria Governorate.

Its implementation period is 30 months, and the party led by Orascom will execute it. The second contract is for implementing rolling stock, spare parts, and equipment for measuring and testing devices.

Moreover, evaluating the companies bidding for its implementation is underway. The minister highlighted that the development works aim to achieve safe line operation, especially after eliminating the level crossings (14) and several unauthorized crossings and intersections with traffic movement.