Oman’s first electric public bus hit the roads on Tuesday in presence of a large number dignitaries from Oman and public transport experts from several parts of the world.
The launch of Mwasalat electric bus was strategically planned during the UITP Mena conference titled ‘Smart transportation for sustainable cities’, which saw attendance of more around 300 international participants, including stakeholders, in Salalah.
UITP (Union Internationale des Transports Publics) is International Association of Public Transport and a passionate champion of sustainable urban mobility.
The event was organised under the auspices of HH Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar at Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment. The national and international delegates witnessed the launch of the first electric public bus in Oman, as a high level discussion on the importance of smart public transport system, put emphasis on fast, safe and efficient urban mobility to ensure global sustainability.
In his keynote address, Eng Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), called the event a significant milestone in the Sultanate of Oman’s collective efforts to shape a sustainable future for public transportation across the Mena region.
“The ministry recognises the vital role the public transportation plays in achieving sustainable mobility. We are committed to working alongside stakeholders and partners to develop and implement innovative solutions. This includes actively supporting the adoption of green technologies, such as electric buses and renewable energy sources, within our public transport systems. We are also fostering the development of intelligent transport systems that leverage data and technology to optimise routes, improve efficiency, and provide a seamless passenger experience,” he said.
The Mena region, he said, was experiencing rapid urbanisation, and the demand for a robust and sustainable public transportation network would continue to rise.
Badar bin Mohammed al Nadabi, CEO of Mwasalat, affirmed his commitment for the better future of public transportation in the region.
“At Mwasalat, we are committed to playing a leading role in this transformation. We are actively investing in green technologies, such as electric buses and renewable energy sources, to minimise our environmental footprint. We are also embracing intelligent transport systems that leverage data and technology to optimise routes, improve efficiency, and enhance the passenger experience,” he said.
Mohammed Mezghani, Secretary-General, UITP, Burssels, Belgium, said Public transports are key to global sustainability.
“More public transport, less fatalities, as this mode is safe, environment friendly, healthy, creates jobs, helps economy and its ultimate gainers are the people... This is a win-win situation for all, because an investment of $1 in public transport generates $5 in the economy,” he said.
Commenting on the role of UlTP, he said, “With more than 1,900 members across 100 countries, UITP has been active in the Mena region for many decades, growing our presence to reflect this innovative, progressive region. The UITP Mena Division has always remained committed to the importance of international collaboration, and the positive outcomes of sharing knowledge and experience among all Mena region members.”
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