Exciting news for everyone navigating Lebanon daily: public buses are back, and they’re better than ever with 96 new buses on the roads. This initiative is set to transform public transportation. The buses will first operate in Beirut, with plans to expand nationwide by September.
**A Joint Effort**
Supervised by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, this initiative showcases a successful partnership between the public and private sectors. The Lebanese government will oversee and monitor the service, while private companies will manage daily operations.
**Tickets and Pricing**
Two types of tickets will be available: single-use tickets and prepaid cards that can be topped up at any money transfer office in Lebanon. Both options can be purchased at bus stations currently being set up. In the future, passengers will be able to pay using a mobile app via Touch when entering and exiting the bus. Each trip will cost 70,000 Lebanese Liras.
**Bus Features**
Safety is a top priority for this initiative. The buses are equipped with security cameras monitoring both the driver and passengers, providing added protection. They also feature a GPS tracking system for real-time route monitoring, coordinated through a central control room. A dedicated app will soon provide information on bus arrival and departure times. Additionally, the buses are equipped with air conditioning, which will be especially appreciated during the summer.
**A New Era for Public Transport**
At a recent press conference at the Railway and Public Transport Authority in Mar Mikhael, Dr. Ali Hamieh, the caretaker Minister of Public Works and Transport, announced the launch of a plan to operate 96 public transport buses on designated routes in Beirut, followed by other areas across Lebanon before September. Dr. Hamieh emphasized that the buses are state-owned and operated by the private sector, complementing rather than competing with private sector services, specifically red plate taxi owners.
Dr. Hamieh stated, "The buses are equipped with modern safety features, including cameras directed towards the driver and passengers, and a GPS device for tracking the bus location. Additionally, a central control room will manage the operation of all buses, and an app will provide bus arrival and departure times. Payments will be made electronically through a preloaded magnetic card."
The return of public buses marks a significant advancement for public transportation in Lebanon, offering a more efficient, safe, and comfortable way for citizens to travel across the country.
