Cairos New Monorail System Faces Skepticism from Local Authorities

Cairo’s East Nile Monorail Opens to Public

A new public transportation line has been introduced in Cairo, Egypt, as part of the city’s infrastructure development plans. The 56.6km monorail connects Nasr City to the New Administrative Capital, passing over several districts and landmarks along the way.

On its first day of operation on May 6, passengers were able to test the service, with many praising the cleanliness and comfort of the ride. However, some commuters have expressed concerns about the cost of tickets, with prices ranging from 40 Egyptian pounds ($0.76) for a six-station trip.

The monorail is part of a larger transportation network that includes the Light Rail Transit, Metro Line 3, and Bus Rapid Transit systems. The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion on Cairo’s roads and provide a more efficient travel experience.

According to officials, the rationale behind the project is to address the city’s growing population and traffic issues. The monorail was chosen due to its cost-effectiveness compared to underground metro lines, as well as minimal disruption to streets.

The project has been built in partnership with several international companies, including Alstom, Arab Contractors, and Orascom, with Siemens donating trains to the Egyptian government. At full capacity, the line is expected to carry 600,000 passengers daily and create around 20,000 jobs.

The monorail’s elevated route passes over several notable landmarks, including the American University in Cairo’s campus and the wide compounds of New Cairo. The project has been hailed as a significant urban achievement, but its affordability remains a concern for some commuters.

Source: Al Jazeera