The group, comprising Colas Rail, Orascom Construction and Hitachi, has signed a contract with Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels to carry out the works, which include modernising signals, communications and central control, and electromechanical, electrical, overhead network and track works.
The upgrade is aimed at ensuring the quality and continuity of service on the metro line and reducing maintenance and operating costs.
Deputy prime minister for industrial development, minister of industry and transport Kamel El Wazir said that in conjunction with the modernisation of the line systems, 23 trains were being refurbished and 55 new air-conditioned trains introduced.
The 44km line opened in 1987 and was the first metro line in Africa and the Middle East. It carries 1.5 million passengers a day.
