This is just to answer the recurring question that I get about the possibility of constructing an underground, subway, metro, u-bahn in Beirut or any form of reliable, clean, safe public transport. This is just one of many studies that have been done and put in the drawer for the many reasons we all know. I thought it would be interesting to share this with everyone. I was particularly impressed with the graphics (Hand drawn) and the main transport corridors which have not changed for the past 50 years in our city. It is important to note that engineering is never the problem with such projects.
USSR commissioned a study for "The evaluation of the possibility and necessity of the organization of the metropolitan (METRO) for the city of Beirut"
A team of 4 engineers spent one month studying travel patterns and were able to come up with a preliminary plan for multiple METRO lines for the city, including typical cross sections, ridership numbers, etc. at an estimated cost of 250-280 Million USD, rolling stock included.
The number of corridors needed to transport the same number of people with and without public transport
Modal Split and Vehicle numbers needed to transport the same amount of people with and without the metro till the year 1980
Suggested transport network structure with metro lines, urban freeways and arterials
Typical cross-sections, with and without underground parking
2 suggested cross-sections for Hamra street, one with only public transport vehicles allowed at surface and the other with vehicles restricted to the bottom side and leaving the surface for pedestrians
Metro lines, urban bus and interurban bus with suggested Park and Ride locations
The 4 Metro lines
Greater Beirut Area with underground lines in Beirut and at surface rail in the suburbs
Estimated price of 250-280 Million USD. Even after adjustment for inflation, this price is much lower than what it would cost right now to build such an extensive network.
Wirtten by : Nabil Nakkash.
