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29 March 2024

100 A/C bus stands not working... Dubai's RTA promises action

Published
By Sneha May Francis

Commuters using public transport in Dubai complain that some of the air-conditioned bus stands in the emirate are not cooling.

It’s a closed shelter but the air-conditioning never works. It’s extremely stuffy to stand inside a closed shelter that is not air-conditioned,” complained Reni Thomas, who is frequent on the bus circuit.

In fact, it’s hotter inside the cabin than outside.”

This is probably why you’d still find many commuters standing outside the glass shelters.

"Although there is a faint breeze when one stands inside, it’s not strong enough to cool the commuters. It might be sufficient for one person or two, but when more people step in, then it gets uncomfortable,” described a commuter.

There were reports of how some shelters' A/Cs emitted a soft murmuring sound, and no air-conditioning.

"There’s some sound that the machine emits, but it doesn’t cool,” added another resident.

When Emirates24|7 contacted the Road Transport Authority (RTA), they released the number of bus shelters where the air conditioning is not working.

It said efforts are being undertaken to set things right and kick-start the second phase of providing shelters.

"We are currently preparing for the second phase of the project. Our target is to provide our valued customers with this kind of facilities at all the service points,” explained Mohammad Abdullah AL Ali, director of bus, RTA public transport agency.

He added that the total number of A/C bus stands in Dubai is 900, of which 100 do not have A/C in working condition.

Mohammed added that the problem is  faulty electrical lines.

"Yes, these shelters are not powered due to the electrical connection issues. We are coordinating with the investor company to resolve this issue and find a solution.

"We are working closely with the investor to study different alternatives to provide the electrical supply.”