RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is set to launch the first phase of its Riyadh Metro system, a project that will transform public transport in the city.
A partial opening is scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, with trains running on three of the six planned lines. The remaining lines are expected to open by mid-December.
The metro is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to reduce reliance on cars, ease traffic congestion and position Riyadh as a global trade and business hub. It is also being billed as the world’s longest driverless metro system.
The initial three lines will connect key routes, including Al-Arouba to Butha, King Khalid International Airport Road, and Abdul Rahman Bin Auf Street to Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussein Street. By mid-December, additional lines will connect King Abdullah Road, Al-Madinah and King Abdul Aziz Road.
The $22.5 billion project, which was approved in 2012, has been delayed by logistical issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, its opening is a major milestone in modernizing Riyadh’s infrastructure.
Sustainability is central to the metro’s design. Solar panels at stations will provide 20% of the energy needed for critical systems. Trains with regenerative brakes will reduce electricity use, and eventually, all six lines will run entirely on renewable energy.
Officials will soon announce ticket prices and special discount packages.
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