Siemens supplies signaling equipment for the extension of Line 1 in Algiers

Siemens supplies signaling system for extension of Line 1 in Algiers. Siemens has received an order from the transportation company Entreprise Métro d’Alger (EMA) to equip the extension of underground line 1 in Algiers with a signaling system. The new segment of the first automatic metro line in Algeria’s capital city runs underground and adds four stations to the existing line. The scope of supply includes the Trainguard MT CBTC automatic train control system, the Airlink radio transmission system, and the Digiloc train locating system. The contract also includes training of the customer’s personnel in the use of the new technology. The order is worth around 20 million euros. Commissioning of the extension is scheduled for summer 2015.

Siemens obtained the order for turnkey construction of Line 1 in the Algerian capital in 2006. The line with ten stations extends south to north and along the coast into downtown Algiers. The extension of Line 1, which includes a route of around four kilometers and four stations, is to connect western part of Algiers to the metro network, too. With over three million inhabitants, Algiers is the country’s largest city and, at the same time, Algeria’s most important traffic hub. Metro Line 1, which opened in 2011, contributes toward reducing the daily traffic congestion in the capital and boosting the mobility of its inhabitants.

The extension of Line 1 will be equipped with the Trainguard MT automatic train control system from Siemens. This enables optimized train sequencing in line with passenger volumes and maximizes the subway’s operating safety, reliability, and availability. Data is transferred continuously between the metro line and the train via the Airlink radio transmission system, The CBTC system controls the trains on Line 1 according to the moving block principle with an absolute stopping distance. An integrated Automatic Train Operation (ATO) system drives the train automatically and with energy efficiency. Trainguard MT requires less trackside equipment, such as signals and block signaling systems, than conventional train protection systems. This results in lower installation and maintenance costs, and in turn reduces the requirement for spare parts.