Dubai has officially inaugurated the Route 2020 Project which involves the 15 km extension of the Dubai Metro Red Line from Jebel Ali Station to Expo 2020 Station.
At a cost of AED11 billion ($2.9 billion) the Route 2020 project links seven stations and will be open to the public in September this year, WAM reported.
Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai said: "The UAE has exceptional goals and ambitions. Today, we are moving with confidence, determination and a clear vision to attain the highest levels of excellence in various fields. Our objective is to provide people everything that ensures their wellbeing, stability and happiness and establish a prosperous future for the coming generations."
"The world is today entering a new phase which brings unprecedented challenges that some may not be prepared to deal with. However, we have a strategy designed to tide over unforeseen challenges and create a positive future. Our nation is equipped with the plans, competencies and expertise needed to navigate these challenging global circumstances. We have the ability to overcome all obstacles while sustaining our progress and generating new opportunities," Sheikh Mohammed added.
For his part, Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed by Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority, RTA, noted that Route 2020 has a capacity of 46,000 riders per hour in both directions (23,000 riders per hour per direction), adding that the expected number of riders using Route 2020 to reach 125,000 per day in 2021, and 275,000 riders per day by 2030.
"Studies also reveal that Expo 2020 Station is expected to record about 35,000 daily Expo visitors during weekdays, and the number to increase to 47,000 daily visitors during weekends. This number accounts for 29% of the total expected number of daily visitors of Expo," explained Al Tayer.
According to WAM, work is currently underway on the second phase of mobile testing, which consists of a series of tests on a train in motion without passengers. Tests on the rolling stock cover motors, brake systems, loading, electric current systems, electromagnetic compatibility, automated train systems, rail communications systems, and speed.
