Mauritius has experienced a week brimming with notable announcements and ambitious projects. The government has prioritized infrastructure upgrades, enhanced environmental protection, and wider sector access for Indian workers.
A new service to streamline metro travel
To cut down on station queues and make rail travel more accessible, Metro Express Limited and Mauritius Telecom have launched the Metro Express Digital Ticket. Commuters can now purchase metro tickets through the MyT Money app, receive the digital ticket on their smartphone, and validate it at the station entrance to board the tram.
With rising demand for public transport, Metro Express Limited has also requested new trams from the government. Additionally, a Light Rail Transit Masterplan is being developed to expand the Metro Express network to other parts of the island. The Ministry of Land Transport is working on implementing a cashless payment system for buses, which will also help gather more accurate passenger data for better network management.
New highway announced by the Prime Minister
Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has announced the construction of a new highway, the M4, which will connect Forbach, Flacq, Bel-Air, Grand-Bel-Air, and the Plaisance airport. This major project aims to ease traffic in the eastern part of the island and boost economic development in the region. The feasibility study is complete, and land acquisition is underway. This new infrastructure is part of the government's commitment to improving connectivity and promoting economic growth in Mauritius.
Launch of the National Blue Carbon Task Force
As part of its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, the Mauritian government has launched the National Blue Carbon Task Force. This initiative brings together various stakeholders to promote the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems, which are crucial for blue carbon sequestration. Seagrasses, mangroves, and coastal marshes play a vital role in combating climate change by absorbing and storing CO2. The National Blue Carbon Task Force aims to enhance capacities and develop nature-based solutions to protect these valuable ecosystems.
Qualified Indian workers now allowed in all sectors
To address the growing skills needs of the Mauritian economy, a bilateral agreement has been signed between India and Mauritius. This agreement allows qualified Indian workers to access all sectors of activity in Mauritius. The recruitment of these foreign workers will be managed by the Indian National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). This measure aims to stimulate economic growth and enhance the competitiveness of Mauritian businesses.
