Tunisia's TGM Train Line Plagued by Deep-Seated Waste and Vandalism Issues

The Le Kram train station, a key stop on the Tunis-Goulette-Marsa (TGM) northern suburban line, has become a recurring scene of vandalism and incivility. Local residents and shopkeepers are reportedly dumping household garbage and various waste directly onto the railway tracks. Beyond the environmental and aesthetic damage, these actions pose a direct threat to the safe operation of the trains.

The Société des transports de Tunis (Transtu) issued a strong statement condemning these irresponsible behaviors and repeated attacks on public railway property. The public transport operator emphasized that these acts constitute criminal offenses punishable by law, going beyond mere disruption of public service. Transtu reiterated its call for civic responsibility from residents and nearby businesses, urging strict adherence to hygiene rules.

Transtu announced it would coordinate with local and security authorities to take all necessary legal steps against anyone involved in degrading public service or endangering rail safety. Shortly after the statement, cleaning teams worked to clear the accumulated waste from the Le Kram station tracks, aiming to ensure operational safety and mitigate the ecological impact. However, the problem is not isolated to Le Kram; other stations like "Aéroport" and "La Goulette Casino" suffer from similar issues.

Furthermore, the article points out that waste dumping is not solely the responsibility of residents and shopkeepers. Ragpickers, informal vendors, and unauthorized stalls also contribute significantly to the pollution of the tracks. These individuals have occupied sidewalks and roadways, seemingly taking advantage of the near-total absence of municipal authorities. In a telling anecdote, vendors even hang their merchandise, including clothing and various items, directly on Transtu's protective barriers. The article suggests that until these unauthorized activities are addressed, the problem will persist.

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These acts go beyond a simple disruption of public service and constitute criminal offenses punishable by legal proceedings.