Orascom Construction (OC), in partnership with the UK’s Colas Rail and Japan’s Hitachi Rail, has signed an €800 million contract with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) for the modernization of Cairo’s Metro Line 1, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Contract for the modernization of Cairo Metro Line 1
Photo: NAT

This agreement was announced on Sunday, September 1, 2024.

Brazil to Acquire 33 New Metro Trains: Rolling Stock Renewal and Infrastructure Modernization

The first line of the Cairo Metro, spanning 44 kilometers and connecting 35 stations, is a key transport artery in the city, serving over 1.5 million passengers daily.

The project will commence in October and will last for 64 months. Orascom Construction holds a 35% stake in the project, which is valued at around €800 million.

The modernization will be financed by several international financial institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the French Development Agency (AFD).

Under the project, OC and Colas Rail will be responsible for upgrading the power supply systems, overhead catenary system, and electromechanical systems at stations, in tunnels, and on the tracks.

Hitachi Rail will focus on modernizing critical components such as signaling, control, and telecommunications systems, which will enhance the safety and efficiency of the metro system.

The consortium has committed to carrying out the modernization without disrupting regular metro operations.

This project is part of a broader plan to develop Egypt’s infrastructure.

Orascom Construction, listed on the Cairo Stock Exchange, is a leading global engineering and construction company. Its activities encompass infrastructure, industrial, and commercial projects across the Middle East, Africa, and the United States.

Orascom Construction consortium with UK’s Colas Rail and Japan’s Hitachi Rail sign a contract with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT). Photo: NAT

Rail business, industry, and railway technology news from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

PESA to Supply New Regio160 Electric Trains for Łódź Voivodeship: Transportation Enhancement and Environmental Benefits

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit