Project Profile: Mostaganem Tramway, Algeria

The Mostaganem Tramway is a 14.2 km modern light rail transit (LRT) system designed to enhance urban mobility in the port city of Mostaganem, Algeria. This profile details the project’s technical specifications and strategic importance, highlighting its role in Algerian infrastructure development despite significant initial challenges, including contractor default and subsequent project restructuring.

Project Fact Sheet

Technical Specifications

The Mostaganem Tramway infrastructure consists of two primary lines serving 24 passenger stations across the city’s key corridors. The system is powered by eight electrical substations, ensuring consistent traction power for high-frequency service. The project’s civil engineering, managed by COSIDER, included the construction of the track bed, stations, a maintenance depot, and an operations control center.

The rolling stock comprises 25 Alstom Citadis 402 trams, assembled locally by the CITAL joint venture in Annaba, Algeria. Each 7-module bidirectional tram is 44 meters long and designed for high capacity, accommodating up to 400 passengers. The low-floor design ensures full accessibility, complemented by amenities such as integrated climate control, real-time passenger information systems, and CCTV surveillance. Alstom also delivered the complete integrated system, including the signaling, telecommunications, and power supply infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

• Risk Mitigation in Public-Private Partnerships: The project’s initial phase was severely impacted by the 2016 bankruptcy of the original civil works contractor, Corsan-Corviam. This serves as a critical case study on the necessity of robust financial due diligence and contingency planning when selecting international partners for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Development of Local Industrial Capacity: The involvement of Algerian firms COSIDER for civil works and CITAL for tram assembly demonstrates a successful model for technology transfer and local skills development. This approach fosters a self-sustaining domestic rail industry and reduces long-term reliance on foreign-only contracts.
• Modernization of Urban Transit: With a peak capacity of 5,000 passengers per hour in each direction, the tramway provides a modern, efficient, and sustainable alternative to private vehicle transport, directly addressing urban congestion and improving quality of life in Mostaganem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the Mostaganem Tramway open?

The Mostaganem Tramway officially began commercial operations on February 18, 2023, following the completion of extensive testing and safety certification phases.

Who built the Mostaganem Tramway?

The project was a collaboration between multiple entities. Alstom supplied the integrated rail system and the Citadis trams (manufactured by CITAL), while the Algerian company COSIDER was responsible for the civil engineering and track construction after the original contractor defaulted.