Jerusalem operator drops bid over tender demands

摘要

Citipass, the operator of Jerusalem's successful light rail system since its opening in 2011, has announced that it is to withdraw from the current tender process for the expanding system, citing what it calls "unreasonable and disproportionate" demands in the new tender's conditions. The 14km (8.7-mile) Red line (Pisgat Ze'ev - Mount Herzl) was Israel's first light rail system and after the current extensions it will connect Hadassah Ein Kerem hospital and run north to Neve Yaakov. The new tender includes the construction of a 19km (12-mile) Green line from Har Gilo to Gilo and to Malha, plus a new depot and operations centre, as well as operation of both lines. Citipass said its decision to withdraw is due to the level of risk transfer placed on the future operator by the new tender conditions, some of which related to "issues that are not under the operator's control". In statements to local media, it listed a number of security incidents that have resulted in damaged and delayed trains on the existing line. The company says its contract with the state did not prevent it from losses incurred during such events and it is understood that the new tender contains fewer protections.