Special Lanes for Buses and Taxis Introduced in Dubai
Dubai commuters have reason to celebrate as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a groundbreaking plan to enhance public transportation efficiency. The initiative includes the construction of dedicated lanes exclusively for buses and taxis along six major streets, covering a total distance of 13 kilometers. These special routes are designed to streamline travel times and improve the overall public transport experience in the city.
Set to be completed between 2025 and 2027, the project will cover key streets such as Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Street, 2nd of December Street, Al Satwa Road, Al Nahda Street, Omar bin Al Khattab Street, and Naif Street. By targeting high-traffic areas, the initiative aims to have a significant impact on public transit users.
The introduction of dedicated lanes is expected to bring numerous benefits. Commuters can look forward to substantial reductions in travel time, with estimates suggesting a decrease of up to 59% during peak hours on specific routes. For example, journeys on Naif Street are projected to be almost 60% faster for bus passengers.
The improved efficiency goes beyond just speed. With dedicated lanes, buses will encounter less traffic congestion, resulting in more predictable arrival times. The RTA predicts a notable improvement in bus punctuality of up to 56% on the designated routes. This, in turn, will lead to a more reliable public transport system, encouraging residents to choose buses over private vehicles.
This initiative is in line with the RTA’s vision of promoting sustainable and efficient transportation options in Dubai. By incentivizing public transport use, the project aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce the environmental impact associated with it. The dedicated lanes are also expected to enhance the travel experience for taxi passengers by making journeys more streamlined and time-efficient.
The construction of these dedicated lanes marks a significant advancement for Dubai’s public transport network. With the promise of faster commutes, improved punctuality, and a potential shift towards sustainable transportation, this initiative sets the stage for a more efficient and user-friendly public transport system in the city.