The first train, Light Rail Vehicle (LRV), Urbos 100 3rd generation LRVs, to be acquired by Metro Express Ltd will be delivered as from June 2019 and start operation on the Port-Louis/Rose Hill segment in September 2019. The Urbos 100 3rd generation LRVs form part of the innovative and high-quality trains, specifically designed by Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF) to offer the end user a unique traveling experience.
The Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit and Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, made this announcement on 09 March 2018 at the unveiling ceremony of the mock-up train by CAF for the Metro Express Project in Port Louis.
According to the Prime Minister, the Urbos 100 3rd generation trains of Metro Express will soon become the symbol of the ambition of the Mauritians to embrace a new era of modernity that will lead to new heights of progress and prosperity. He recalled his determination of endowing the population with the most modern infrastructure which, he added, will trigger new growth opportunities.
Mr. Jugnauth expressed his conviction that building modern and appropriate infrastructure is one of the most powerful ways to promote equity in the society. As Mauritius celebrates its 50th anniversary of its independence, Government takes pride in its initiatives to build a new and smart Mauritius as legacy to future generations, he stated.
As Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Steering Committee set up to oversee the implementation of the Metro Express Project, the Prime Minister gave his assurance that Mauritius has chosen the best alternative transport system that the country can afford. On this score, he stressed that the Metro Express must therefore be viewed in the broader perspective of Government’s vision to transform the socio-economic fabric of Mauritius and lift up the quality of life for one and all and not just another mode of transport.
He also ensured that he will personally see to it that the three imperatives set for the Metro Express project are strictly complied with, namely quality and security, timely implementation and no cost overrun. Quality, sophistication of the system and cost effectiveness emerged as the main messages as we braced ourselves to move towards implementation of the Metro Express Project, he stated.
The Design and Construct contract of the Metro Express, was awarded to Larsen & Toubro on 31st July 2017 to the tune of Rs. 18.8 billion. On 28th September 2017, the foundation stone of the depot at Richelieu, the heart and nerve centre of Metro Express, was laid.
Source: Government of Mauritius