Mauritius Metro Express: 2026 Construction Update

Mauritius’ Metro Express LRT system, a significant railway project, combats traffic congestion and boosts economic development. This successful initiative utilizes state-of-the-art technology and international collaboration.

Mauritius Metro Express: 2026 Construction Update
June 19, 2020 12:55 pm
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Project Profile: Mauritius Metro Express (MME)

The Metro Express Mauritius (MME) is a 26 km light rail transit (LRT) system engineered to modernize urban mobility between the key hubs of Curepipe and Port Louis. This project provides a high-capacity, sustainable transport backbone for Mauritius, directly addressing chronic traffic congestion and supporting continued economic development.

AttributeDetails
Project NameMetro Express Mauritius (MME)
LocationMauritius (Curepipe to Port Louis corridor)
Project TypeLight Rail Transit (LRT)
Route Length26 km
Maximum Speed80 km/h (Operating Speed: 35-80 km/h)
Estimated CostMUR 18.8 billion (approx. $565 Million USD)
Status (as of 2026)Fully Operational
Key ContractorsLarsen & Toubro (Design & Construction), CAF (Rolling Stock), RITES (Project Consultancy)

Technical Specifications

The MME’s infrastructure is built on a standard gauge, ballast-less track system, which significantly reduces long-term maintenance requirements and provides a smoother ride quality. The 26 km route features 19 stations, including two elevated structures, strategically positioned to maximize public access and integrate with existing transport networks. Operations are managed from a dedicated train depot and control center in Richelieu.

The rolling stock consists of 18 bi-directional, low-floor Urbos 100 3rd-generation trams supplied by Spanish manufacturer CAF. Each air-conditioned, seven-module tram has a capacity for 300-400 passengers and is equipped with modern passenger amenities, including Wi-Fi. The fleet’s efficiency and safety are enhanced by an advanced signaling system featuring an Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVLS) and a Transit Signal Priority System (TSPS), ensuring seamless movement through urban intersections.

Key Takeaways

  • Strategic Economic Impact: The MME directly mitigates the estimated MUR 4 billion annual economic loss caused by traffic congestion, while simultaneously stimulating development and creating thousands of jobs throughout its construction and operational phases.
  • International Collaboration Blueprint: The project’s success demonstrates a powerful model for infrastructure financing and execution, leveraging a $353 million grant from the Government of India and the technical expertise of leading firms from India, Spain, Singapore, and Australia.
  • Integrated Multimodal Transport: Designed for seamless connectivity, the MME connects with three major bus interchanges. This approach establishes a truly integrated public transportation network, rather than a standalone rail line, enhancing commuter convenience and system-wide efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the route of the Mauritius Metro Express?

The Mauritius Metro Express operates on a 26-kilometer route, connecting the major urban centers of Curepipe and Immigration Square in Port Louis. The system includes 19 stations and is designed to integrate with major bus interchanges for comprehensive public transit coverage across the corridor.

Who built the Mauritius Metro Express?

The Mauritius Metro Express was constructed through a global partnership. The primary design and build contract was awarded to Indian multinational Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The state-of-the-art Urbos trams were supplied by CAF of Spain, with project consultancy and supervision managed by RITES of India.