The city of Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, is on the verge of a transportation revolution with the upcoming launch of its cable car system. Scheduled to start operating at the beginning of the next school and social year, the cable car will significantly alleviate the pressure on passenger transport and revitalize the city's image. The system will operate daily from 6 am to 10 pm, bringing relief to residents who currently face lengthy traffic congestion, particularly when traveling between the New City and city center.

Preparations for the launch are underway, with trials having been conducted successfully since early May by the Algerian Metro Management Company, the project's main contractor. The initial phase will involve a 2.5 km stretch between the new Bouhinoune inter-city bus station on the western outskirts of the city and the M'Douha station near the wilaya headquarters. This section will feature four stations and 65 cabins, capable of transporting 2,000 passengers per hour per line.

The project, which has been in development since 2017, has encountered delays due to issues with landowner compensation and expropriation procedures, as well as challenges related to the placement of pylons. However, the compensation and expropriation issues have been resolved in recent months. The total investment in the project stands at over 53 billion centimes. Once completed, the cable car system will span 5.5 km, with 28 pylons and multiple stations, including those at the New City, 1st November Stadium, wilaya headquarters, and Belloua Hospital.

The cable car system will consist of two phases, with the first phase using a telcabine system and the second phase, from Belloua Hospital to the Sidi Belloua mausoleum, utilizing a cable car. The mausoleum, located at an altitude of 750 meters, will be a key destination on the route. Four companies are currently working on the project to ensure its completion within the scheduled timeframe.

The launch of the cable car system is expected to have a significant impact on the daily lives of Tizi-Ouzou residents, providing them with a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. The system will not only reduce traffic congestion but also offer a unique perspective on the city. The project's second phase, which will connect the M'Douha station to the city center, is expected to be completed by 2020.

The cable car system is part of a broader effort to modernize and improve the transportation infrastructure in Tizi-Ouzou. Once fully operational, the system will provide a vital link between different parts of the city, promoting economic growth and social development. The project's success will depend on its ability to meet the needs of residents and provide a reliable and efficient service.

The full launch of the cable car line is planned for 2020, with the remaining 3 km of the 5.5 km project to be completed by then. The completed system will significantly enhance the city's transportation network and provide a boost to the local economy. Residents and visitors alike will benefit from the increased mobility and scenic views offered by the cable car system.

Key points

  • The cable car system will have a capacity to transport 2,000 passengers per hour per line.
  • The project has been delayed due to issues with landowner compensation and expropriation procedures.
  • The full launch of the cable car line is planned for 2020.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.