Over 15,000 Individuals Affected By Abidjan Metro Project, With Close To 10,000 Compensated

The Abidjan metro construction project for line 1 has affected 15,023 individuals, with 9,552 of these already compensated, revealed the Resettlement Action Plan Monitoring Committee (CS-PAR) and the Resettlement Action Plan Implementation Unit (CE-PAR) during a press conference held on June 9, 2023.

A total of 12,527 individuals entered into negotiations, out of which 11,174 have signed their compensation certificates. The compensations have been either in cash or by check or Treasury Money. The CE-PAR is still reaching out to the 2,496 individuals who remain unreachable to date.

During the briefing, it was noted that negotiations take place individually and are facilitated by a dedicated office that handles any arising complaints. From the 4,164 complaints received, 3,402 (82%) have been resolved, with 161 currently in process and 601 pending.

The project necessitates the demolition of 4,214 buildings, from north to south. As of now, 4,099 buildings have been demolished, clearing 97% of the area needed for the project.

The affected individuals fall into seven categories: building owners (residents or non-residents), free lodgers, tenants, landowners, traders, crop owners, officials of places of worship, and businesses.

Mr. Cissé Moustapha, Chairman of CS-PAR, acknowledged the impact of the metro project on Ivorian citizens, particularly those in Abidjan, and stressed that the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) was implemented to minimize these impacts and ensure fair and equitable compensation.

The metro line 1 of Abidjan is 37.4 km long, and passes through the northern and southern zones of the city. It boasts two tracks, 18 stations, 28 rail and road bridges, 36 platforms, and a viaduct bridge over the Ébrié lagoon. Once operational, it is expected to handle 540,000 passengers per day and create 2,000 jobs.