The electric public bus in Dubai. RTA

Dubai will gradually phase out regular public buses in four areas and replace them with electric ones, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has confirmed. The CEO of RTA's Public Transport Agency, Ahmed Bahrozyan, said that 40 electric buses would be purchased and added to the RTA's fleet. This move aims to transform the entire fleet to be environmentally friendly by 2050, aligning with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy. The electric buses will follow four routes: Business Bay, Al Ghubaiba, Al Satwa, and Al Jafiliya. These routes were chosen based on their suitability for electric bus operation and the availability of necessary charging infrastructure. The RTA will make the required electric charging infrastructure available for the new fleet. The electric buses will be fitted with Raqeeb Driver Behaviour Monitoring System and an automated passenger counting system to avoid fare dodging. Despite the higher cost of electric buses, passenger fares will remain unchanged. The capacity of electric buses will be similar to diesel buses, accommodating up to 70 passengers with standing space. Bahrozyan assured that electric buses have been tested for performance in extreme heat and will not impact the environment negatively. The move is likely to cut carbon emissions by around 3,900 tonnes a year. Traditional buses will be recycled in accordance with RTA's strategic plan, which complies with sustainability and eco-friendly standards. FAR/Expat Media
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