(MENAFN- The Peninsula) deepak john |
The Peninsula
Doha: Qatar's transport sector appears well placed to build on its role as an engine for broad-based growth. The public transport system in the country is developing in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030, according to a report.
The investment in transport infrastructure over the last decade - both in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2022, and to strengthen and diversify logistics capabilities - has been paying dividends. The tournament accelerated the government's drive to upgrade transport infrastructure, prompting significant increases in public financing. There is also a renewed emphasis on sustainability in the sector, as the development of environmentally friendly infrastructure and services is a key component of Qatar National Vision 2030, noted a report by Oxford Business Group (OBG).
The sea and air ports are expanding their handling capacity, both in terms of passengers and cargo. An emphasis on sustainability and moves to improve urban transport connections have shifted focus to bus and rail transit which has proved important for the country. The popularity of the Doha Metro to date should provide a long-term solution to traffic congestion, it added.
Since its inception, Qatar Rail has operated with a mandate to develop an efficient countrywide public transport system. This goal is guided by the diversification, sustainable development and social progress goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. The creation of a modern public rail network is intended to improve commute times, alleviate motorway traffic, reduce CO emissions, and provide convenient transport connections that will ultimately change the way people live, work and do business in Qatar.
From November 18 through December 18, the public transit system transported nearly 26.8 million passengers. Recently, the Ministry of Transport in a statement said that more than 18.416 million passengers were transported by the Doha Metro, 829,741 by Lusail Tram, some 150,800 by Education City Tram, and over 27,600 by Msheireb Tram.
The transportation sector has set remarkable record numbers in all its services since World Cup began until the end of the tournament. As many as 26,425 aircraft movements have been recorded at both Hamad International Airport and Doha International Airport during the mega sporting event. From November 20 through December 18, the public bus system transported up to 7.368 million passengers, taxis made 315,122 trips, while limousine and passenger transportation companies that use mobile applications reported more than 8.274 million trips.
The global research and advisory firm report stated that the works carried out by the MoT led to the establishment of an integrated and sustainable transport network in the country, to form an interconnected transport unit that includes public transit bus systems, and Doha Metro and Lusail Tram network, supported by advanced infrastructure and using the latest international technology.
The construction of new metro and tram stations across Doha and Lusail City has stimulated growth in transit-oriented developments (TODs), which are mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly real estate complexes situated near transit stations. TODs can generate significant economic benefits for new or previously underserved communities, as the influx of commuters provides an opportunity for stimulating non-fare revenue. This encourages players in the private sector to establish various retail, hospitality and entertainment options, the report noted.
Qatar's ports also have been crucial for economic development, and they will be of even greater importance as the government works to build on the country's status as a regional shipping centre.