RTA project to boost bus services in Dubai

Dubai: A new public bus depot is to be constructed in the Al Rawiyya area of Dubai.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced yesterday it had endorsed a Dh400 million contract for the construction work.

The station will provide a range of comprehensive services, including maintenance workshops and supply services.

The first phase of the project, which has an estimated cost of Dh205 million, includes construction of the bus depot capable of accommodating 295 buses

The second phase includes construction of an administration office for about 40 employees, in addition to driver's quarters with a capacity to house 444 drivers.

An investment building, containing food courts, shops and a mosque, will also be constructed

Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, said the project aimed to encourage more people to use the city's bus service in a bid to ease traffic congestion.

He said: "We are working on the provision of highly sophisticated buses to deliver top quality services at affordable rates and with a wide geographical coverage. It will also contribute towards achieving mass transit modes that include public buses, the Dubai Metro and marine transport.

"The new buses are fitted with the latest technological features and highest safety and security standards. The design of the second door entry point on articulated buses includes a non-slip floor to ease boarding and alighting of passengers with disabilities."

The RTA has signed an agreement with Al Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company to purchase 55 deluxe buses at a cost of Dh128 million. The agreement covers 30 first class single deck buses, 15 deluxe buses and 10 first class buses fitted with facilities to accommodate wheelchairs.

Al Tayer added: "In the near future, the RTA will award the contract of the world's biggest bus purchase order covering 1,616 buses of different sizes and shapes."

"State-of-the-art technological features fitted to these buses include voice announcements, global positioning systems linked to the RTA control room, as well as internal and external monitors.

"Following this order, the number of buses in service by 2009 will hit 2,500, ensuring public transport will cover the whole emirate. It is hoped that these buses, together with Dubai Metro and marine transport modes, will contribute to attracting 30 per cent of transit in Dubai."