The government seems to be making it a point of honour to solve the problems of road congestion before the end of its mandate. Hence, the Light Railway project is coming to the surface again. In order to considerably reduce traffic jams in the capital during peak hours, there seems to be no better solution than building the light railway. It has always been postponed because of its high cost.

However, it seems to be back on the agenda? Going from Curepipe to Port-Louis in 32 minutes could then become reality. At the end of January, the World Bank ratified the Project Preparation Facility, which should move the project one step ahead, according to the transport planner of the Light Rail Transport secretariat.

The World Bank will not only finance the project; it will also take an active part in the conception and implementation of this new mode of transport. The bank is also aware of the impact of such a project on the economy, environment and society. The project is estimated to cost around Rs 6 billion. The World Bank has accepted to finance half of the project and the Mauritian government the other half. But the latter hopes that a public-private partnership will emerge to finance the project.

Meanwhile other short-term measures are on their way. Technicians from the ministry of Public infrastructure are working on a series of measures to reduce traffic jams in the capital, which they will soon submit to the new minister, Ajay Gunness. These short-term plans will concern three crucial spots : Place d?Armes, Caudan and Quay D roundabouts.