MUSCAT, APRIL 5
State-owned multimodal public transport operator Mwasalat – part of Asyad Group – is setting up an integrated public transport bus and taxi station in Al Buraimi Governorate – a move that will strengthen connectivity with the strategically important region of the Sultanate of Oman.
An MoU to this effect was signed recently by Mwasalat with the Ministry of Interior, represented by the Office of the Governor of Al Buraimi.
“The MoU aims to strengthen public-private sector partnerships (by developing) bus stations for city and intercity transport, waiting area for passengers and taxis, and a smart micro mobility station with shaded and public parking spaces,” said Mwasalat in a post.
The new hub will be the latest addition to an expanding public transport network encompassing new intercity routes, introduction of high-tech commuter buses and coaches, enhanced WiFi connectivity and innovative conveniences on board passenger buses, air-conditioned bus stations along key routes, and enhanced safety as well.
Public uptake of Mwasalat’s bus services has been growing dramatically with the state-run operator transporting over 3 million passengers across its network in 2022, up from 1.6 million a year earlier, representing a jump of 87.5 per cent.
Around 8,400 passengers patronised Mwasalat’s services on a daily basis in 2022, up from 6,000 in 2021. Its fleet of high-speed ferries carried 221,000 passengers during the same period, down from 245,000 passengers in 2021.
A new integrated public bus and taxi station in Al Buraimi will add to a makeover underway in the governorate to help strengthen its investment and tourism appeal. It includes the construction of Al Buraimi Gate, an imposing edifice that will also double as a virtual museum of the governorate’s natural and tourist attractions.
Omran, the government’s tourism investment and development arm, is also supporting the establishment of a major public park, Al Abila Park, in the governorate. Covering an area of 181,000 sq metres, the park will serve as an important recreational setting for local residents and tourists alike.
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