### Metro Express: A Mobility Model in Peril in Mauritius
Across the island territories, the challenge of urban mobility is a major issue, both economically and socially. In Mauritius, the ambitious Metro Express tramway project, launched in 2020, is now facing a worrying picture. With an annual deficit reaching 300 million rupees, or around 6 million euros, the new government, under the leadership of Navin Ramgoolam, is facing an alarming financial situation that could redefine the future prospects of this mode of transport.
#### An Enlightened Initial Vision
When the Metro Express was designed, the objective was to relieve traffic congestion in cities such as Port-Louis and Curepipe, while promoting a sustainable transport solution. The project, which extends over 30 kilometres and serves 21 stations, attracts around 45,000 users per day. This figure represents a third of urban travellers, highlighting the growing need for alternatives to private cars. In this sense, the tramway has indeed initiated a paradigm shift in the way Mauritians view their daily travel.
However, this vision is now being overshadowed by an unprecedented financial challenge. Prime Minister Ramgoolam underlines the gravity of the situation by describing Metro Express as insolvent, with a colossal loan of Rs 16 billion taken out from India. At first glance, these elements may seem discouraging, but they call for a deeper reflection on the role that this infrastructure can play in the future of mobility in Mauritius.
#### A Comparison with Other Transport Initiatives
To assess the possibility of turning around Metro Express, it is worth taking a comparative look at other public transport systems in similar regions. Let us take the example of Antananarivo, in Madagascar. Despite the economic troubles, the Express bus network, although criticized for its reliability, has been able to adapt to the needs of users without accumulating astronomical debts. This has been possible thanks to participatory management, which involves the community in the planning and implementation of services.
On the other hand, in Reunion Island, the tramway currently in operation has managed to bridge the gap between modernity and tradition by integrating affordable fares while ensuring rigorous financial management. Their success lies in the synergy between public investment and private partnership, offering a model that the Mauritian government could seriously consider before implementing drastic measures such as increasing ticket prices.
#### Solutions to Explore
The analysis of the situation invites us to consider several avenues of reflection rather than focusing solely on increasing fares. First, an awareness campaign could help to mobilize more users, by highlighting the comfort and speed of the tramway. Second, developing public-private partnerships for operation could ease the pressure on public finances. Furthermore, a study on the long-term economic impact of the Metro Express would help to determine its real socio-economic benefits and to consider a profitability strategy.
It is also necessary to review the conditions of free travel granted to senior citizens and students, while assessing the socio-cultural impact of such a measure. Balanced access to the transport system could be achieved by combining a modest increase in fares with targeted reductions for vulnerable groups.
#### Conclusion
Like other transport projects around the world, Metro Express has the potential to be a real cornerstone of sustainable development in Mauritius. However, this ambition can only be achieved if a proactive approach is adopted that combines strategic thinking, social solidarity and financial innovation. As the government navigates these turbulent waters, it is essential that it bears in mind that economic challenges can often be overcome with a clear vision that is tailored to local realities.
So, rather than viewing Metro Express as a financial drain, it could instead be seen as an opportunity for transformation, a challenge to be met rather than a burden to be borne. In this way, Mauritius could not only preserve its investment, but also chart a path towards a more connected, inclusive and sustainable future.