Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 13, Hitachi Rail has been selected to supply rail systems for the modernisation of the Alexandria Raml Tram in t. The contract, awarded by the Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors joint venture (JV), includes installation of new signalling and communications systems, an operational control centre, and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA). Security systems with CCTV and access control, passenger information systems, and on-board equipment are also part of the project.

Hitachi will upgrade the oldest electric tram fleet in Africa.

The modernisation involves reconstructing 24 stations and 13.2km of tram track. Joaquim Santos, from Hitachi Rail signalling and rail solutions (SRS) operations, projects, products, and systems (OPPS), said: “Hitachi Rail has a long-standing presence in Egypt, built on trust, collaboration and shared ambition. Our commitment goes beyond delivering advanced technologies—we are deeply invested in developing local capabilities, supporting innovation, and contributing to the country’s sustainable mobility goals.”

Upgrades are expected to reduce travel time from 60 to 35 minutes, increase operational speed from 11km/h to 21km/h, and cut headway from nine minutes to three. Once completed, the tramline will accommodate up to 13,800 passengers per hour per direction, compared with the current 4,700. The project aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance public transport infrastructure, reduce congestion, and lower CO₂ emissions in Alexandria.

Carlo Piacenza, Hitachi Rail SRS Middle East and Africa (MEA) regional director, said: “The contract will see us modernise and upgrade the oldest electric tram system in Africa, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally enhanced transportation system.” The Alexandria El Raml Tram, operational since 1863, is the oldest tramline in the Middle East and Africa, and its infrastructure was last updated in the 1960s. The line is among the few worldwide to operate double-deck trams in regular service.

Hitachi Rail has strengthened its local presence in Egypt, establishing engineering, finance, legal, and project support teams. The company is introducing localised activities for communications-based train control (CBTC) systems and developing automated fare collection (AFC) solutions. Digital solutions, including integrated public information systems and AFC platforms, are being implemented across metro, light rail, and monorail networks.

In Alexandria, the Abu Qir Metro will use TRANSCITY AFC technology, supporting QR codes, contactless cards, EMV bank cards, and NFC mobile payments. Hitachi Rail’s expertise extends globally; recently, Spain’s Railway Infrastructure Administrator (Adif) selected the company to upgrade signalling and telecommunications systems for a new freight rail link to the Port of Seville.

The Alexandria Raml Tram project represents a major step in modernising urban mobility in the city, combining advanced technology, enhanced passenger capacity, improved travel times, and sustainable transport solutions. The collaboration between Hitachi Rail and local partners highlights the commitment to developing efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly public transport in Egypt.