By Matovu Abdallah Twaha www.gulftoday.ae
DUBAI: As Dubai has decided to offer free public transport on Nov.1, the authorities have clarified that buses going outside from Dubai to other Emirates have not been included for free rides.
On Nov. 1, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will commemorate its 6th anniversary by offering free public transport services in Dubai through Metro, buses and water transport, but only for NOL cardholders.
Many people told The Gulf Today they were eager to enjoy the offer, but they did not know whether the offer was only for intra-city buses or inter-city buses as well.
When this scribe asked an official from the transport agency about it he said: “No. Not now.”
It will be the second time when the public would enjoy the offer as the RTA has been exploring ways to increase the use of public transport from the current 9 per cent to 30 per cent by 2030.
“This year’s theme is “Together we Move,” said the Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA, Mattar Al Tayer.
Among other incentives for the big day would be a Dhs100 complimentary credit added to “most used 50 Nol cards,” said Al Tayer.
There was 40 per cent increase in the users of public transport last year on the day than other days.
According to the RTA sources, the number of Metro commuters on the public transport day last year hit 205,965 passengers, compared to 140,000 passengers on normal days, recording a 47 per cent increase.
This year the Green Line has been opened so the number is expected to soar.
