Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a new generation of bus shelters at four hotspots across the city.

 

The shelters boast of an innovative design that had been endorsed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. 

 

It is the first batch under a plan for constructing 1,550 shelters for waiting passengers set to be constructed over the next three to four years.

 

"The project is being undertaken in partnership with the private sector through the build-operate-transfer (BOT) model. The investor will cater to the funding of construction and operation of shelters, and share the proceeds of advertisements with the RTA under a 12-year contract," said Mattar Al Tayer, the Director-General and Chairman of the board of executive directors at the RTA. 

 

Through this project, the RTA offers the private sector a long-term investment opportunity and the chance to develop smart and innovative services for users. It also diversifies the Authority’s revenues and serves the key objectives of the Public-Private Partnership. 

 

"The RTA received six proposals from local and international investors, and four firms passed the technical and financial assessment," he added.

 

Al Tayer said the new design of bus shelters is part of a package of vital projects endorsed by Sheikh Mohammed that bolster the image of Dubai as a perfect city for stable and safe living. 

 

"These designs conform to the Dubai Code for People of Determination as they make room for wheelchairs and tracks for visually challenged individuals," he stated. 

 

The initiative is coherent with the vision of our leaders that calls for adopting the PPP model as a pivotal tool for stimulating the growth and development of Dubai, said the top official.

 

"The new shelters serve the needs of highly populated areas of the emirate and cater to the current and future needs of public bus services. They feature a stylish modern design that forms a blend between a practical interior and dazzling exterior, besides utilising the constructional elements to serve and form part of the architectural design of shelters," explained Al Tayer.

 

"The construction of shelters is part of RTA’s ongoing efforts to upgrade the public transport sector and set up a robust and integrated infrastructure to rely on. The overall aim is to serve the wellbeing of Dubai residents and make them happier through offering them, especially commuters, handy services during the scorching summer heat," he added.-TradeArabia News Service