Light Rail Developments in Algeria: A Case Study

This article examines the significant light rail transit (LRT) developments underway in Algeria, focusing on the projects in Algiers, Oran, and Constantine. These projects represent a substantial investment in public transportation infrastructure, aiming to improve urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance the quality of life for Algerian citizens. The analysis delves into the technological aspects of these projects, highlighting the involvement of international consortia and the selection of state-of-the-art rolling stock. Furthermore, the article assesses the broader economic and social impacts of these initiatives, considering Algeria’s unique socio-political context and its dependence on the energy sector. The primary aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of these projects, their implementation challenges, and their potential long-term contributions to Algeria’s urban development. The analysis considers the project scope, the technological choices made, and the potential for future expansion and replication in other Algerian cities.

The Algiers Tramway: A Flagship Project

The Algiers tramway, a significant undertaking, involves the construction of a modern light rail system designed to alleviate traffic congestion and improve public transportation access within the city. The project, awarded to a consortium led by Alstom, with partners including Siemens France and CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles), has been implemented in phases. Phase one, extending from El-Annasser to Borj El-Kiffan, comprises 16.3 km of twin-track line with 30 stations, with a planned expansion towards Derganais adding 7 km and 8 more stations. The system is expected to carry up to 185,000 passengers daily. This project exemplifies a “turnkey” approach, encompassing complete system planning, construction, and initial operation.

Oran and Constantine Tramways: Expanding the Network

Building upon the success of the Algiers project, similar LRT systems are being implemented in Oran and Constantine. The Oran tramway, an 18km line featuring 32 stations, is being developed by the Tramnour consortium (Alstom and Isolux Corsan). Alstom provides the Citadis vehicles, signaling, and telecommunications, while Isolux Corsan handles civil engineering and track work. The Constantine tramway, a shorter 8km line with 11 stations, sees Alstom taking a more prominent role, delivering the rolling stock, infrastructure, and systems integration, with Pizzarotti responsible for civil works. These projects utilize Alstom’s Citadis vehicles, a low-floor design known for its accessibility and operational efficiency. The design and configuration of these vehicles incorporate specific Algerian requirements. Each project is anticipated to carry substantial passenger numbers, around 160,000 daily in Constantine’s case.

Infrastructure and Rolling Stock: Key Aspects of the Projects

The Algerian LRT projects stand out for their “turnkey” nature, meaning that the projects include all aspects of the system’s development, from initial planning and civil works to the delivery of rolling stock, signaling, and maintenance provisions. This integrated approach, common in Alstom’s home market, streamlines project management and ensures seamless system integration. The Citadis trams, manufactured in Alstom’s Barcelona plant, offer accessibility, ease of boarding and alighting, and advanced onboard information and safety systems. The Algerian projects highlight the adaptability of the Citadis platform, as local specifications are incorporated into the vehicles’ design and configuration.

Conclusion

The light rail developments in Algiers, Oran, and Constantine represent a significant step forward in Algeria’s urban transportation infrastructure. These projects, characterized by their scale, technological sophistication, and integrated approach, are expected to have a considerable impact on the daily lives of Algerian citizens. The “turnkey” nature of these projects, with involvement of major international players such as Alstom, Siemens, CAF, and Isolux Corsan, showcases both the country’s commitment to public transport improvements and the international appetite for infrastructure projects in the region. While the challenges related to project implementation in a complex socio-political environment are acknowledged, the successful completion of these projects will significantly improve urban mobility, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and contribute to the economic development of these cities. The potential for future expansion, with consideration for additional LRT networks in cities like Annaba, underscores the long-term strategic value of these investments. The success of these initial projects can serve as a model for future urban transportation improvements across Algeria and potentially serve as a case study for similar developments in other developing nations.

Company Information:

• Alstom: A French multinational corporation operating worldwide, specializing in railway systems, rolling stock, and power generation.
• Siemens: A German multinational conglomerate with a presence in various sectors, including transportation and infrastructure.
• CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles): A Spanish multinational company primarily focused on the manufacturing of rolling stock for railways.
• Vinci Construction: A French multinational construction company, a leader in global infrastructure projects.
• Isolux Corsan: A Spanish multinational engineering and construction company involved in diverse infrastructure projects.
• Pizzarotti: An Italian multinational construction company with experience in large-scale infrastructure projects.