The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in Abu Dhabi announced the implementation of the executive regulation for operating passengers’ transport services by buses in the emirate.
The order aims to increase passengers’ safety, and regulate passenger transport activities using rented buses, privately hired buses, tourist buses along with public buses, and to clarify the responsibilities and duties of all entities operating in this sector.
All services related to passenger transport by buses are available on Asateel’s platform.
The regulation applies to all bus operators that operate in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, whether the buses are registered in or out of Abu Dhabi, Wam, reported.
The regulation consists of the terms that are regulating passengers’ transport by buses, the terms and conditions of practicing this activity, the requirements to issue public and tourist bus drivers’ permits, standard specifications of the bus and the penalties in case of failure to abide by the rules followed in this sector.
The regulation also does not contain any fees and all services related to permits are provided free of charge.
The regulation stipulates that practicing the activities in this field is prohibited to companies or entities without obtaining a permit from ITC first.
According to the regulations, ITC is permitted to authorise the operation of buses registered out of Abu Dhabi for different durations.
The regulation also prohibits operating buses that are not equipped with air conditioners or do not match the standards and specifications approved by DMT.
ITC said all operational companies and entities working in the field of public transport by buses or any other related activities should fulfill all requirements according to the provision of the regulation.
Previous permits which are still valid are accepted at the moment, ITC said, adding that upon expiry the concerned entity should apply for a new one according to the terms stated in the executive regulation.
“Operators must also provide the technical requirements to ensure security and safety,” it said.
Other requirements state that the operating companies should provide insurance covering both drivers and passengers, in addition to keeping regular records of the number of working hours and breaks, and preparing detailed programmes for regular maintenance for buses and stopping the bus in designated areas.
ITC will offer companies operating in this field a grace period that extends up to September 15, 2022 to realign themselves with the provisions and stipulations of the regulation.
ITC said implementing the regulation in the public transport by buses was aimed at enhancing safety of passengers and encouraging the investment in the passengers’ transport sector as it protects the operational companies’ rights.
ITC stated that violators will be firmly dealt with in order to ensure the safety of the passengers, indicating that it is important for all stakeholders to cooperate in implementing the regulations and ensure the safety of the public.
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