Lima Metro Expansion Aims to Tackle Congestion and Boost Connectivity
– Lima, Peru, is moving forward with ambitious plans to expand its metro system, a response to crippling traffic congestion that costs the country billions annually. Authorities are proposing three new lines – Lines 7, 8, and 9 – as part of the Plan de Movilidad Urbana para Lima y Callao 2025-2045, officially released on December 17th.
The current Lima and Callao Metro system is limited, with only Line 1 fully operational, running from San Juan de Lurigancho to Villa El Salvador. Line 2, connecting Ate with Callao, has faced significant delays, but saw the opening of its first five stations within the Santa Anita district in December 2023. The expansion represents a critical step towards alleviating the daily struggles of Lima’s commuters, who currently lose an average of two hours each day to traffic, resulting in economic losses exceeding 27 billion soles per year, according to the Peruvian Automotive Association.
Line 7: Connecting Callao and Ancón
One of the key proposals is Line 7, designed to link the northern area of Callao with Ancón, spanning 28 kilometers. The Autoridad de Transporte Urbano (ATU) intends to construct this line as an elevated railway to minimize costs and expedite construction, avoiding extensive land expropriation and utility relocation. The route will begin at the 200 Millas Oval in Callao, bordering San Martín de Porres, and follow Gambetta Avenue and a portion of the Pan-American North Highway.
Gustavo Díaz, Subdirector of Planning at the ATU, describes Line 7 as a “social and light metro,” intended to serve neighborhoods with expanding populations, including Oquendo, Márquez, Mi Perú, Pachacútec, Ventanilla, Santa Rosa, Puente Piedra, and Ancón. The project is described as a “decision taken” by authorities, signaling a firm commitment to its completion.
A Broader Vision for Lima’s Metro Network
Beyond Line 7, the plan encompasses Lines 8 and 9. Details regarding the specific routes and timelines for these lines remain less defined, but their inclusion in the Plan de Movilidad Urbana underscores a broader vision for a comprehensive and interconnected metro network. According to reports, Line 8 will connect El Agustino with the Cercado, while Line 9 will link San Miguel with the Rímac district.
Tunneling Technology and Minimizing Disruption
The expansion of Line 2 offers a glimpse into the future of urban transit in Lima. With 74% of civil works completed on the central station and an overall project advancement of 50%, the project is utilizing advanced tunneling technology to minimize disruption to the city. A 130-meter long tunnel boring machine (TBM), named “Delia,” is being employed to excavate tunnels and simultaneously install concrete tunnel rings, reducing the need for demolitions and prolonged road closures.
This “Step in Full” strategy, successfully implemented in cities like Madrid, Rome, and Santiago, involves creating tunnels in advance of station construction. Carmen Deulofeu, General Manager of Metro de Lima Line 2, explained that this approach streamlines the overall process and minimizes long-term traffic impacts.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of the Lima Metro is not merely a transportation project. it represents a potential catalyst for economic revitalization and a blueprint for sustainable urban development. As Lima continues to grapple with the challenges of congestion and growth, the successful implementation of these new metro lines will be crucial in shaping the future of the city and improving the quality of life for its residents. The new lines are expected to not only connect the Callao province with Lima, but also provide rapid and affordable access to the airport.
