[MESSAGE] Dr Das Mootanah, Chief Executive Officer

Dear Commuters,

As we approach the conclusion of this remarkable year, let us reflect on the collective journey we undertook together. Since its inception, the Metro Express project has evolved into a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community development.

In the realm of infrastructure, 2023 marked the full operational launch from Curepipe to Place d’Armes and from Rose Hill to Reduit, achieving a 30 km alignment. Kudos to the MEL Project Team for this monumental accomplishment and the O&M team who seamlessly managed the entire alignment, catering for approximately 12 million passengers only this year—an outstanding achievement indeed!

Our commitment to efficiency and excellence is evident in the successful completion of multiple phases, registering a staggering 24 million passengers since the commercial launch in January 2020; this despite the challenges encountered during Covid-19 pandemic. Beyond its role as a transport solution, the Metro Express is a catalyst for a positive change, rejuvenating urban landscapes and fostering socio-economic benefits for the people of Mauritius.

Besides, this year, MEL’s Operations faced challenges due to its popularity, notably overcrowding, whereby our train capacity has been tested, yet our Operations team, including our Train Captains, Stewards, Station Support staff and OCC team displayed resilience and adaptability; ensuring world-class customer service and smooth operations. Moreover, behind the scenes, MEL’s Maintenance team exceeded expectations with key upgrades and in-house workshops established, playing a crucial role in providing timely support for to the complex network and its maintenance needs. Our commitment toward safety has also remained constant throughout the year, with numerous Safety Awareness Campaigns carried out to sensitise the public, in collaboration with the Ministry of Land Transport and Light Rail and the Mauritius Police Force, as well.

Beyond just the Metro Express Project, which, as we always say, is bigger than just a transport project, MEL also established some notable environmental and social initiatives. Multiple social and community parks have been launched this year along the Metro Corridor, promoting a sense of belonging, enhancing the overall well- being of the residents and maintaining a vibrant social fabric. Moreover, as part of its green initiative, 2023 has been a year of fruition, in terms of the solar energy project, with MEL successfully setting up its first solar project at the Ébène Recreational Park, on a pilot basis. This project has now enabled the Ébène Recreational Park to offset nearly 80 % of its power consumption.

The integration of a light rail station at Phoenix Mall, exemplifies our commitment to a mul- ti-modal approach, creating not just a transporta- tion system, but a hub for economic development and social integration. Our ongoing embellish- ment project, aims at beautifying the light rail corridor, emphasizing on inclusiveness and sus- tainable development. In line with our dedication to sustainability, initiatives like partnerships for non-fare revenue through advertising, reflect our pledge to financial viability. We are also em- bracing innovation through a mobile application for E-Commerce, shuttle services in the region of Ébène for enhanced connectivity, and policies en- couraging developments around metro stations.

Looking ahead, our vision includes expanding green energy sources, further urban develop- ment, and integrated multimodal transport op- tions to ensure a seamless and sustainable fu- ture. Our strategic vision emphasizes continued investments in sustainable practices and digital- isation for enhanced passenger experiences. In essence, the light rail system in, Mauritius, has proven to be, not merely a transport project, but it embodies a strategic investment in the nation's future, promoting sustainable development, eco- nomic prosperity, and an elevated standard of living for its citizens.

Coming to the magnificent Ébène Recreational Park, this year, the Park has celebrated its third year of operation in December. The Park has welcomed more than 500,000 visitors since its launch and has also been welcoming multiple activities by private organisations, NGOs, SMEs, among others.

As we celebrate these milestones, I extend my gratitude to our dedicated team, stakeholders and the people of Mauritius for their unwavering support. As we step into the New Year, let us face the future with optimism, knowing that, together, there's no challenge too great for MEL to overcome. Thank you for your outstanding contributions and I eagerly anticipate achieving even greater milestones in the year ahead.

On this note, I wish all our loyal commuters a Merry Christmas 2023 and a Happy New Year 2024.

Dr Das Mootanah Chief Executive Officer

Metro Express Ltd