The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) commissions four hundred new bus shelters in Dubai, which is good news for bus commuters. The aim is to set up a total of 1,295 bus shelters (air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned), and the project is expected to be completed by 2017.
Around 15% Dubai residents prefer to travel by Bus and the aim is to increase this to 30% by 2030. “The primary aim is to bring comfort and pleasure to the passengers as hot and humid season grips the city nearly all year round” said Mattar Al Tayer (DG-RTA). Project will be based on Operate and Transfer mechanism for a period of 10 years which will further provide bidding opportunities for private investors as well.
Some of the bus shelters in Dubai still lack air-conditioning due to connectivity issues which will be resolved accordingly by solar power installation. RTA has planned that upcoming shelters will increase amenities including an ATM, Real Time Passenger Information and vending machines. A total sitting for 10 and space for 5 passengers standing in waiting will be provided in this 6 metres long and 2 metres wide shelter. Good news for disabled persons; the shelters will be made easier for them to access.
As part of Phase-II, 50 planned smart shelters will be built where users will have small cafes, internet connectivity, charging stations for mobile phones and bill payment options through digital kiosks.
To further enhance the passenger experience and provide additional safety from changing weather conditions, these shelters have been designed using aluminium covered with re-enforced polyester. RTA has partnered with Right Angle Media for this project making it the first out-of-home media company in Dubai to put in substantial investment in public infrastructure.