Plan to reduce vehicles on roads

“We don’t see implementation of light rail in the next five or seven years.”

“With regards to the environment, the strategy hopes to reduce the number of cars on the road, as well as decrease pollution levels,” explained Al Futaisi.

“Our network of roads has connected the whole country. However, experts have indicated that in cities around the world, reducing traffic and overcrowding must be achieved through public transport,” he added.

It is a move that Yusra Jaffer of the Environmental Society of Oman favours.

Advantages

“One of the biggest advantages would be, obviously if we are sharing cars, or using fewer vehicles, then there will be less carbon emissions and that will hopefully reduce the impact on climate change and pollution. So we very much favour the increase of public transportation in Oman,” she said.

Residents in Oman are looking forward to the positive impact of this transport overhaul.

“The initiative of introducing high quality Mwasalat buses has given a huge boost to the public transport system,” said Ajay Saxena.

“All the major cities have implemented a metro network and it has played a huge role in public transportation. This will also attract investors and help in the overall growth of the country.”

Cut pollution

“It would be great to reduce pollution and increase movement of people,” added Jeevan Toprani. “It would bring progress all over Oman, and the innovation and technology this brings will reduce transport costs and give jobs to lots of Omanis,” while Fayaz Afridi added, “If a light train system is brought in, then it would reduce pollution and make life easy for people. It’s also of great advantage for tourists.”