The Republic of Tunisia
Tunis – Mejez El Bab Motorway
Loan No.: 405 Interest Rate: 4.5 % Beneficiary: Tunis Autoroutes Grace Period: 5 years Project Cost: KD 55.9 million Maturity: 22 years Amount of Loan: KD 25.0 million Repayment: 35 semi-annual installments Date of Loan Agreement: 05/02/2001 First Installment: 5 years following the first disbursement Date of Effectiveness: - Objectives:
The project would improve road transport in the main road network in Tunis through the development of its major arteries, and raise its standard to that of a motorway to accommodate the increasing road traffic. The project would also develop road communication with the neighbouring Maghreb countries, being a part of the Maghreb motorway extending from Libya to Mauritania, passing through Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco.
Description:
The project, which is expected to be completed around the middle of the year 2004, comprises the construction of a motorway, around 67km long, starting from the Western exit of the Tunisian capital and ending at Wadi Zarqa'a, approximately 16km to the west of the city of Mejez El Bab, with four lanes, two 7m width in each direction to be paved with asphalt, and with a 12m island separating the two directions. The project includes the construction of four interchanges, to link the motorway and connecting roads, in addition to several underway and overway crossings and culverts. The works also include the construction of toll collection stations, with all related systems equipment and traffic signs. The main elements of the project are:
1- Civil Works: This includes all works related to building the road, excavation, fill, base layers, asphalt base course and pavement. It also includes structural works related to bridges, interchanges, culverts, drainage works and retaining walls, as well as buildings related to the toll collection stations and maintenance, in addition to auxiliary works such as installation of traffic signals and traffic signs.
2- Studies and Design: This includes consultancy services related to the technical and economic feasibility study for the project, and the preparation of designs and related tender documents.
3- Equipment and Appliances: This includes the procurement and installation of equipment and appliances related to toll collection stations for motorway users.
4- Supervision of Works: This includes the establishment of a project management unit, and the provision of all necessary equipment and cars. It also includes services by consultancy firms in order to help the unit in the supervision and quality control of the works.
