With the ambition to provide a world-class, multi-modal transport system that increases connectivity within all areas of the country, the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) has announced its plans to test out a new kind of public transport system in Qatar.

Initially, to run on a trial basis, the Automatic Rapid Transit (ART) is an innovative, modern and environmentally public-friendly transport system, which is a crossover between buses and trams.

ART is a rail-less system that comes with intelligent controls and is primarily used for transport within cities.  It also integrates electrical and mechanical systems.

The ART trial in Qatar will be the first in the world after it has been in operation in the manufacturing country China since 2017.

According to MoTC, the trial run for the ART will begin on Al Khor Expressway next week.

جانب من تجارب نظام النقل السريع الأوتوماتيكي والذي يعد وسيلة نقل مبتكرة وعصرية وصديقة للبيئة بفضل اعتماده على نظام تحكم ذكي، والجمع بين الأنظمة الكهربائية والميكانيكية pic.twitter.com/5R15VXc0iN

— المواصلات والاتصالات (@MOTC_QA) July 10, 2019

The trial will continue for a specific period while MoTC assesses the transport system’s functionality, performance among other factors to ensure it fits Qatar’s weather conditions.

If successful, the new system will support the diversification of Qatar’s transport sector, which will be further enhanced with the adoption of the world’s latest transport system.

This contributes to achieving economic and environmental balance in the transport sector’s infrastructure projects, the Ministry said in a statement.

It would also offer an exceptional experience for fans and visitors during the FIFA World Cup 2022 with high-quality services that provide smooth mobility to stadiums, residences, and tourist spots, the statement added.

The initiative is in line with the pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030, supporting the public to reach all vital areas easily with safe and reliable services.

The Ministry added that the step is part of its significant efforts to developing transport modes in Qatar according to the latest eco-friendly universal systems and deploying alternative and clean energy in the industry to reduce harmful emissions.

If the concerned authorities give the ART a go-ahead, this will add to Qatar's existing means of public transport, which was enhanced by the launch of the Doha Metro earlier this year.  

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Cover Image Credit: Qatar Tribune