An environment-friendly sustainable light rail transport seems to be the most viable solution for resolving the transport woes in Muscat, an expert suggested on Sunday.
Addressing the Oman Transport Infrastructure Summit here on Sunday, Dr Syed Anisuddin, expert - training and development at the Ministry of Defence Engineering Services, said there is a need to scientifically plan the future of Oman transport system for providing a better level of service, and avoid peak hours culminating into peak periods, thus moving more people rather than vehicles.
The rapid urbanisation in the past few years in Oman has resulted in abundant increase in housing and vehicular population, which is one of the highest in the world. Every year, the road length is increased by 20 percent. However, the road space becomes scarce and the passengers are witnessing difficulties.
Oman is the third country among GCC in terms of number of accidents and seventh in global raking. "The median of Oman population is around 19 years. So one can imagine what an amount of load the roads will have to cater in a couple of years time, as they all will opt for their own cars," he added.
Dr Anisuddin said countries that have best optimised transport network systems have flourished by all means in the world, though mobility and accessibility can not be provided alike to one and all. The short-term need based planning costs heavy to the countries exchequer and the same time causes commuting stress and strain to road users.
