The Tizi Ouzou cable car project in Algeria, launched in July 2014, has hit a snag, with its expected launch in September failing to materialize. The project, which aims to connect the Bouhinoun multimodal station to the Sidi Belloua mausoleum in Redjaouna village, has seen several setbacks, resulting in a delay in its completion and delivery. The cable car, spanning 5.5 km with 28 pylons, is designed to reduce congestion and pollution in Tizi Ouzou city.

According to La Dépêche de Kabylie, the first phase of the project, covering the distance from Bouhinoun multimodal station to Mdouha, near the wilaya headquarters, was completed several weeks ago. The laying of cables has been done, and the cable cars have been tested, with satisfactory results. The power supply has also been established, and various speeds have been controlled. The tests for empty and 500-kg loads have yielded positive outcomes.

The project's constructor has submitted a plan for intervention and safety, which needs to be verified and approved by the wilaya authorities. This approval is necessary to obtain validation from the Ministry of Transport for the cable car's launch. Despite being ready for operation, the cable car remains inactive. Initially, the project was set to be completed by the end of 2017, but multiple delays have pushed back the deadline.

The main causes of the delay are attributed to opposition from landowners and financial issues. These challenges have hindered the project's progress, leading to repeated postponements. The wilaya authorities are expected to verify and approve the constructor's plan, paving the way for the Ministry of Transport's validation.

Work on the second and third phases of the project, connecting the wilaya headquarters to the Sidi Belloua mausoleum and Sidi Belloua to Redjaouna village, respectively, is ongoing. The excavation work is being carried out at the Belloua and Redjaouna stations. Once the first phase is operational, the focus will shift to completing the remaining sections.

The impact of the cable car project on Tizi Ouzou city is expected to be significant. The cable car will not only ease congestion and traffic but also reduce pollution levels. It will provide a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, saving time for commuters. The project's completion is anticipated to boost the transport sector in the region.

As the project nears its completion, the local population is eagerly awaiting its launch. With a planned length of 5.5 km and 28 pylons, the cable car will have a substantial effect on the city's transportation system. The authorities are working to resolve the pending issues, ensuring the cable car's smooth operation and the project's overall success.

Key points

  • The Tizi Ouzou cable car project has faced delays due to opposition from landowners and financial issues.
  • The first phase of the project is complete, and the cable car is ready for operation, pending approval from the Ministry of Transport.
  • The project is expected to significantly reduce congestion and pollution in Tizi Ouzou city, providing an efficient and convenient mode of transportation.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.