Construction of bus depots on track

Around Dh1 billion worth of construction is ongoing at bus depots in a number of locations in Dubai, according to the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA).

Additionally, its project portfolio includes construction and upgrading of eight marine transport stations at Dubai Creek.

Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA said: "The marine transport project entails construction and upgrading of eight stations at Dubai Creek to meet the current and projected needs of abras, water bus and the water taxi."

It is envisaged that more than 26 million passengers will use this facility upon completion of this Dh100 million project next year.

It includes construction of two new stations at Dubai Creek – Bastakiya Station near the Ruler's Court, and Shindagha Station near the Heritage Village , in addition to upgrading six existing stations – Dubai Old Souq Station, Seef Station, Bur Dubai Station, Bani Yas Station, Sabkha Station and Deira Souq Station.

Two initial designs have been developed; the first one is modelled after heritage architecture, and the other has a modern design.

The heritage design was adopted to fit well with the heritage neighbourhood and the cultural identity of Dubai Creek. RTA was keen to ensure that all designs are compatible with the standards of green buildings, in implementation of the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai a green city.

"Each station includes a two-storey building spanning an area of 450 square metres. Covered corridors extending 350 metres are being provided at each station; a key requirement suggested by the existing abra users," he added.

"Dubai has a premier position in marine transport worldwide. It ranks fifth, after Bangkok, Istanbul, New York and Venice."

He said: "Construction work at Ruwiyya and Khawaneej Bus Depots, costing about Dh690m, is gathering momentum. More than 30 per cent of design works and infrastructure have been completed. Phase II includes construction of an administration office for about 40 employees in addition to Drivers Quarters with a capacity to house 444 drivers. It also includes the construction of investment buildings spanning an area of 3005 square meters containing food courts, shops, and a 250-capacity mosque.

"RTA has completed Phase I of Jebel Ali Bus Depot Station, which costs about Dh229m. The project includes construction of a boundary wall for the site, construction of local roads and public utility networks such as water, electricity, sewage and irrigation. The station has a capacity to accommodate about 300 buses. It is fitted with 24 bays capable of housing 36 buses at a time for conducting various works such as washing, cleaning and refuelling."

Source: business24-7.ae