Egypt Daily News – The Ministry of Transport has officially launched the first phase of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system on the Cairo Ring Road, opening 14 stations to the public. This pilot phase spans from the Police Academy Station to the Qalyoub Interchange Station.
Ticket Pricing:
- EGP 5 for up to 4 stations
- EGP 10 for up to 9 stations
- EGP 15 for the full route (14 stations)
Key Features of the BRT Project:
- First Phase: Runs from the Police Academy to the intersection with the Alexandria Agricultural Road, covering 14 stations.
- Passenger Access: Stations are accessible via pedestrian bridges or tunnels for safety and ease of use.
- Modern Infrastructure: Electronic gates, similar to those in metro systems, have been installed at all stations.
- Electric Buses: The BRT system operates with locally manufactured electric buses.
- Charging Stations: The network includes one main charging station and three auxiliary ones.
- Efficient Service: Buses run every 3 minutes, with frequency increasing to every 1.5 minutes during peak hours.
- Integrated Connectivity: Stations are connected to adjacent parking and transport hubs beneath the Ring Road.
- Network Expansion:
- Phase 2 will add 21 more stations, extending from El-Moshir Tantawy to the Fayoum Intersection.
- Phase 3 will include 13 stations, from the Alexandria Agricultural Road to the Alexandria Desert Road.
- Total planned stations: 48
Ministry Warnings and Safety Guidelines:
In conjunction with the launch of the trial phase, the Ministry of Transport issued a set of warnings to ensure public safety and protect the new system:
- Dedicated Bus Lane: Drivers are strictly prohibited from using the BRT-dedicated lane, located on the far left of each direction on the Ring Road. Violators will face strict penalties, coordinated with the General Directorate of Traffic.
- Driving Behavior: The Ministry warned against driving in the wrong direction on the main road or its on/off ramps.
- Pedestrian Safety: Citizens are urged to use pedestrian bridges or tunnels to cross the road and reach BRT stations safely.
- Environmental Responsibility: People should avoid burning or throwing garbage along the BRT route or on the Ring Road to maintain safety, cleanliness, and environmental standards.
Project Goals:
The BRT system is part of a comprehensive plan to modernize and expand the Greater Cairo Ring Road over 113 kilometers. It represents a major step toward eco-friendly, sustainable, and high-efficiency public transportation in Egypt.
The pilot phase currently covers a 35 km route between the Police Academy and the Alexandria Agricultural Road intersection.
