815 AC bus stations to come up in three phases

In all, 815 AC bus stations will be installed as part of the project, which is the first of its kind in the world.

Mohamed Obeid Al Mulla, CEO of Public Transport Agency of RTA, said the stations are being installed throughout Dubai in three phases.

The first phase includes installation of two stations each at 315 locations and one station each at 185 locations by April 2008.

In the second phase, one station each will be erected at 156 locations by October 2008.

The third phase would cover 75 stations inside the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA).

The Public Transport Agency will soon launch a large-scale campaign to promote this innovative service and encourage commuters to use public transport.

He added that the design of the stations is inspired by the shape of crescent and they will be painted in metallic colour.

Al Mulla said the stations would be equipped with advanced air-conditioning system, the first of its kind in the world, and furnished with innovative designs for the purpose of providing advertising and information space.

The AC bus station would also have an integrated package of public facilities, including ATMs, vending machines and garbage recycling containers.