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RTA to get 80 modern buses

The fleet of new Citaro buses, specially designed by Mercedes Benz to deliver cutting-edge technology and luxury, consists of state-of-the-art low-floor buses, representing a milestone within the transport strategy.

Some 49 articulated buses, 18 standard buses and 13 coaches will be supplied to operate on the newly planned bus services for Dubai Metro, the Airport, VIP services, and inter-Emirate Emirates Express services.

The vehicles will be wheelchair accessible to facilitate movement for those with special needs, with the entrance and interior totally free of steps. A manually operated ramp at the second door allows wheelchair users to board and alight without help. Sufficient space is provided for wheelchairs, prams, and luggage.

As part of this integration drive, bus stops will be reconstructed to ensure a step less entry into the buses and increase the available space for passenger waiting areas and new bus stop shelters. Bus stops will be fitted with electronic information panels to inform passengers of the next bus departures and other messages.

"The introduction of the state-of-the art buses is to encourage the use of public transport," Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, CEO of Dubai Transport said. “This will contribute in easing the burgeoning traffic congestion caused due to the influx of people and businesses,” he added.

The share of public transport is just over five per cent at present, Al Mulla said, adding that the Authority would increase this to 35 per cent over the next few years. He said that the department had plans to replace its entire fleet of buses, over 550 in all, with the new buses over the next few years. An ongoing study would help the department in taking a decision in this regard by the end of this year, he added.

The RTA is continuously committed to work towards providing an integrated transport network for the people of the emirate in order to highlight the presence of Dubai globally for its breathtaking infrastructure and transport.

Abdul Aziz Malik, Director of Bus Transport, said the new strategy will enable the public transport system to keep pace with future urban growth and rising travel demands in terms of quantity and quality of the public transport system. He noted that the ambitious upgrade of the bus system would help RTA achieve its objective of facilitating visitors and residents to move around Dubai and beyond.

• UAE