The system is of standard gauge (1435mm), contrasting with the narrow gauge rails of the neighbouring Lisbon city system, and features 24 Siemens Combino Plus trams of a wide bodied four section design which taper at each end of the individual modules to a standard width articulation unit.
The present three line operation has evolved from a short single route between Corroios and Cova da Piedade which opened in May 2007, and has been extended to Universidade in November 2007, and to the waterfront at Cacilhas in December 2008. Extensions are planned in the future with the longest of these stretching beyond Corroios, where the depot is located, to Lavradio. The terminus at Cacilhas is adjacent to the ferry terminal which allows connection to Cais de Sodre in Lisbon in as little as ten minutes. A ticket office at Cacilhas provides information on tickets and services, ticketing being within the umbrella of the regional authority who’s ‘Viva’ ticket is valid on Lisbon’s trams, buses, local railways and ferries, although different zones apply if crossing the river Tagus.
The system runs a very proactive publicity campaign highlighting the tram priority schemes in operation, and each tram (as well as having a smiling face!) has the word ‘Obrigado’ on the windscreen, which translates at ‘Thank You’ [for allowing priority].
For further information visit the Metro Transportes do Sul website at www.mts.pt
Written and Illustrated by James Millington
