The Tunis-La Goulette-La Marsa railway line, also known as TGM, is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of 18 new electric trains by 2028. This development is part of a modernization program aimed at improving the transportation system in the northern suburbs of the Tunisian capital. The new trains will be acquired through a contract signed between the Société des transports de Tunis (Transtu) and the Chinese manufacturer CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co. Ltd.
The acquisition contract, valued at approximately 75 million euros, was signed on July 10, 2026. The financing for this project is being provided equally by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The new trains will be 40 meters long and have a capacity to carry up to 400 passengers, with 90 seats available. They will be equipped with advanced features such as air conditioning, video surveillance systems, and real-time information systems.
The new trains will also be designed to be accessible to people with reduced mobility, with dedicated facilities for their comfort and safety. The trains will have a maximum speed of 100 km/h, which will enable them to operate more efficiently and frequently. The plan is to have a train every six minutes during peak hours and every 12 minutes during off-peak periods. This increased frequency is expected to provide passengers with a more reliable and convenient mode of transportation.
In addition to the acquisition of the new trains, the contract also includes a five-year maintenance program, as well as the supply of spare parts and specialized equipment. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the smooth operation of the trains and minimize downtime. The modernization of the TGM line is part of a broader program that includes the renovation of railway tracks, stations, electrical installations, level crossings, and signaling systems.
The overall objective of this modernization program is to enhance the capacity, regularity, and comfort of the railway transportation system in Tunisia. By introducing new trains and upgrading existing infrastructure, the authorities aim to provide passengers with a more efficient and reliable alternative for their daily commutes. The TGM line is a vital transportation artery for thousands of passengers, and its upgrade is expected to have a positive impact on the region's mobility and economic development.
The introduction of the new trains is also expected to have environmental benefits, as it will encourage more people to use public transportation, reducing the reliance on private vehicles and decreasing carbon emissions. The Tunisian government has been working to improve the country's transportation infrastructure, and this project is part of a larger effort to modernize and expand the railway network.
The delivery of the new trains is scheduled for 2028, and the project is being closely monitored by the relevant authorities. Once completed, the TGM line will offer a more efficient, comfortable, and reliable transportation service to passengers, contributing to the country's economic growth and development. The project is a significant step towards improving the quality of life for Tunisian citizens and enhancing the country's transportation infrastructure.
Key points
- The new trains will have a capacity to carry up to 400 passengers and will be equipped with advanced features such as air conditioning and video surveillance systems.
