As part of its Dh1.5 million, non-profit project, Ajman is all set to launch a low-cost taxi and bus transport system servicing two fixed routes for a nominal fee of Dh2 or Dh3 per person.
"The purpose of this initiative is to make the lives of residents easier and reduce traffic congestion," said Abdul Karim Abdullah Al Abdul, Director General of Ajman Public Transport Corporation (APTC).
The project will be implemented in two phases. The first will see the operation of six taxis and four buses from Mushairif intersection to Lulu Hyper Market, through the City Centre, the University Roundabout, Al Gerf Industrial Area and the emirate's downtown.
A second route will connect the Ajman town centre near Al Kuwait Hospital to the Industrial area, passing the old Passport Building, Galfa and Al Humaidia bridges, and the vegetable market.
Al Abdul said APTC staff will drive the vehicles. "People will be introduced to the service when they see our cabs and buses hitting Ajman roads." Extra vehicles will be launched to meet the public's need during the second phase, including more trips to Sharjah at a fare of Dh3. Plans are also afoot to extend the service to Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah.
The move is in line with the directives of His Highness Shaikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman, he said.
Al Abdul added: "We will study residents' feedback and if the service meets people's needs, we will further increase the fleet in a way that does not negatively affect other means of transportation."
Indian workers Abdul Malek and Zamal were excited about the new service. They pay more than Dh12 to move inside Ajman and over Dh20 to go to Sharjah. But existing taxi drivers were worried it would hit their commissions.
