Abras running on solar energy planned

Dubai: Marine Agency at the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority has embarked on a project to introduce solar powered abras (water taxis) for passengers to cross Dubai Creek.

The Marine Agency in collaboration with the Swiss MW-LINE Co., has conducted trials on abras to use solar-power as alternate mode of energy to run the boats replacing diesel.

Mohammad Obaid Al Mulla, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Marine Agency said: "We have carried out tests on solar powered abras to reduce pollution resulting from abra diesel engines by 80 per cent, as well as cutting fuel costs by 65 per cent from Dh3.6 million per annum to more than Dh2.2 million."