Jerusalem Launches First Light Rail Network with Green Line Opening

Jerusalem is set to inaugurate the first segment of its Green Line light rail on Friday, marking the creation of Israel's first interconnected light rail network. The new L3 line spans approximately 7 kilometers with 13 stations, linking the Tzurim area to Malha. This line complements the existing Red Line (L1), which connects Neve Yaakov to Hadassah Ein Kerem, allowing passengers to transfer between lines for the first time in Israel, unlike Tel Aviv where light rail lines remain unconnected.

The Green Line, officially named the Yellow Line for signage purposes, connects key city locations including Binyanei HaUma, the government complex, Hebrew University’s Givat Ram campus, the Hebrew Park high-tech area, the Botanical Garden, Teddy Stadium, the Arena, and Malha Mall. It intersects the Red Line at two transfer points: Tzurim station and the Central Bus Station area. The operation of the line still requires final approval from the International Safety Assessment (ISA) team and the Transportation Ministry’s Rail Division manager Kamal Kais.

This development follows 15 years after the Red Line's launch and represents a significant shift in Jerusalem's public transport landscape, moving towards a multi-line light rail system. Upcoming expansions include the L4 Green Line, which will connect the Gilo neighborhood and later extend to Mount Scopus and Bar Ilan areas, despite challenges such as delays caused by COVID-19, regional conflict, and local opposition from the ultra-Orthodox community.

The project is managed by the "Transportation to Jerusalem" authority and executed by the concessionaire Kafir, a partnership between Shapir and CAF companies, with infrastructure developed by Moriah Jerusalem Development Company. Tamir Cohen, CEO of Transportation to Jerusalem, described the project as a historic step for connectivity, accessibility, and economic growth, aiming to serve around 600,000 daily riders with a future network of eight lines. Oren Cohen, CEO of Kafir, expressed pride in completing the first segment despite challenging conditions through creative solutions and adaptability.