Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) public buses have clocked an operation rate as high as 89%; a top global rating that surpasses corresponding rates achieved by some advanced metropolises such as London, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Madrid, Dublin, Hong Kong, Montreal, Rome and Sydney, and for the third year running.

“The World Bank considers the achievement of 85% in bus operations as ideal  considering all conditions, and this standard rate is even dropped to 75% for developing countries. Thanks to RTA’s relentless efforts, we were able to achieve a bus operational rate of 89%,” said Abdullah Al Mazmi, Director of Maintenance and Services, Public Transport Agency, RTA.

“The figure achieved exceeds the global record. RTA buses work round-the-clock and undergo maintenance surpassing excellence worldwide. The RTA Public Transport Agency makes every effort to monitor and implement the best global practices in the management, maintenance and operation of the bus fleet to achieve the highest operational efficiency of assets,” he added.

Al Maazami credited the achievement to RTA’s care for maintenance workshops and the implementation of the 5 Ss principles, which had improved and modelled the work environment, reduced risks and assisted the workflow. Such compliance had paved the way for obtaining a 5-star audit rating as per the standards of the British Safety Council.

“The use of maintenance techniques and strategies hinges on striking a balance between cost and asset performance, and achieving operational efficiency that caters to the cost and risk elements. The use of automation and technology in the testing of buses aims to prevent the occurrence of errors, enhancing accuracy, and ensuring leadership  as well,” he commented.

Over the past three years, RTA bus fleet had lifted about 450 million riders and travelled over 372 million km; a clear indication of RTA’s efforts to increase the role of public transit means and cut the use of private vehicles. Such a strategic drive also aims to alleviate traffic congestions, increase safety, conserve the environment and contribute to the happiness of people.