The tram system in Alexandria, operational for over 163 years and a beloved part of the city’s transport heritage, is being phased out for a new light rail project aimed at increasing efficiency and capacity. This decision has stirred emotional responses from long-time users who associate the tram with their daily lives and local identity, emphasizing its role beyond mere transport.

Residents, like engineering student Mahmoud Bassam and retired teacher Hisham Abdelwahab, expressed deep sadness about the impending change, arguing that the tram represents a significant cultural piece of Alexandria's urban fabric. They reminisce about memories tied to the tram, highlighting aspects of safety and the unique character it brings to the city. Many see the replacement as not just an upgrade, but a threat to their heritage and connection to the past.

As the new train line is positioned as a modern solution to urban transport needs, it raises questions about how cities balance technological advancement with cultural preservation. While the light rail may offer speed and efficiency, the community’s outcry reflects a longing for maintaining historical landmarks that define the character of Alexandria, indicating a need for sensitivity in urban planning that respects the past while embracing the future.