Bahrain’s new public transport network has been officially launched, aiming to modernise and upgrade the national public transport service and provide residents and citizen with a safe, accessible, high-quality system on par with global standards.

Speaking at a press conference, Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, reiterated the significance of this national project aimed at elevating the standard of living for all citizens while boosting the country’s economic growth and prosperity.

The new public bus system forms the initial phase in the ministry’s long-term land transportation development strategy, he said.

“The major overhaul to the kingdom’s public transport system including the introduction of a new, comprehensive public transport service is a significant milestone for the country and will not only enhance the quality of life for citizens but will create a new, sustainable industry that will contribute to the Kingdom’s economic development in line with the Economic Vision 2030.,” said Mohammed.

“Public transport is a vital component of any modern economy and the network put in place 15 years ago in the Kingdom can no longer sustain the country’s rapid growth and future market trends,” he said.

“The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications conducted a comprehensive research to fully understand the market needs, and this study is the foundation stone on which we have constructed our full-scale strategy to modernise and launch a new public transport network and infrastructure that meets the need of the local community,” he stated.

“Our approach to the launch of the new Public Transport Network is multi-faceted; most importantly today, we are not only launching a new public bus service, we are launching a public transport model that aims to offer a viable alternative and attractive solution to the nation’s transport needs built on safety, accessibility and service excellence, with the passenger’s experience at the forefront.” Mohammed pointed out.

“The project will be rolled out over the next few months, allowing us the flexibility to gauge passengers’ feedback and make improvements along the way.  As we have adopted an approach of advancement in this project, we will be implementing major technological advances over the next few months, including smart ticketing and a new mobile app which will be introduced by August,” he added.

The new public transport service started the first phase of operations with 77 brand new state-of the-art buses servicing an enhanced network of 22 routes – compared to 35 buses and 12 routes that made up the old network, said a statement.

The new bus service will be rolled out in phases with full implementation by August 1, it said.


Mariam Ahmed Juman, Undersecretary for Land Transport and Post Affairs, said: “Starting August, the modern network will further expand to cover a total of 35 routes being serviced by 141 buses operating on a daily basis across 77 per cent of the country, reaching suitable and highly populated areas across Bahrain formerly not covered by the network.  The new network will have the capacity to serve around 50,000 passengers daily, compared to 16,000 previously.”

The new system is based on a zonal structure similar to that used in major cities across the globe, and will result in a increase in reach, connectivity and usage, significantly improving the passenger journey, said the statement.

A new 14-zone fare system has also been put in place designed to make travel simpler by facilitating the use of multiple bus services at competitive rates and superior service standards, it said.

“The ministry is simultaneously working to upgrade the supporting infrastructure and facilities and is collaborating with leading UK-based engineering company Trueform on the reconstruction of over 400 bus shelters in the new areas to be covered by the network. Construction work for this project is expected to be completed by the end of 2016,” said Juman.

The new buses have a number of safety features such as electronic brake system (EBS) with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control function (TCS) function, said the statement.

The buses are also fuel efficient due to their ergonomics and unique aluminium body to facilitate weight savings and thereby reduce the fuel consumption while ensuring more energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions, it said.

“Under the supervision and regulation of the ministry, Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) has been appointed to operate the new bus service operation under a 10-year concession agreement. Following a rigorous tendering and negotiation process, BPTC, a private joint venture between UK Company National Express and Bahrain-based Ahmed Mansour Al Aali (AMA) is responsible for the efficient operation of the entire bus network in accordance with international standards and practices,” said Juman.

Mark Kipling, operations and mobilisation director for National Express – International Division, the UK partner in the BPTC joint venture, said: “We are introducing a special full-day pass for 500 fils ($1.3) that allows unlimited trips on any route and bus. Passengers taking numerous trips daily can use this ticket for an enhanced service at a significant cost.”

The 141-strong bus fleet has been designed to local market specifications by international manufacturers from UK and Germany and is equipped with all the facilities, amenities and technology to enhance passenger travel experience and ensure public safety, ease of access and movement, said the statement.

Some key features of the new buses include special conveniences for passengers with disability and special needs, surveillance cameras, on-bus infotainment, priority seating for women, families and elderly, digital destination displays in multiple languages and free WiFi, it added. - TradeArabia News Service