With the launch of the newly-released buses equipped with wi-fi and air conditioning amenities, controversy surfaced social media outlets on whether or not the buses will contribute effectively to transportation services in Egypt’s capital.
The buses, which also feature electronic ticket service, were launched recently by the state-run bus company that cooperated with privately–run bus company ‘Mwaslat Masr’ (translation: Egypt’s Transportation).
Seventy percent of Mwaslat Masr’s shares are owned by the UAE-based Emirati National Group, which helped launch the buses as part of a public transportation project that includes launching 100 mini buses and 80 larger buses in Egypt.
The launch started with a preliminary trial phase that is expected to be complete in July 2018.
The new well-equipped buses cover 18 transportation stations and travel over three lines in different parts of Cairo, according to a statement issued by Mwaslar Masr.
The first line goes from Shoubra to Cairo International Airport.
The second line extends from the al-Mazlat suburb to the airport, while the third goes from the airport to Embaba, according to the statement.
Tickets are priced at LE5, which some consider fair given the step up from governmental buses, however, others in local districts find the fare expensive and unjustified.
Egypt Independent visited two of the stations where the buses are based to obtain feedback on the new service.
Despite the fact that the state-run media outlets announced the new buses have been placed at Abdel Moneim Rayed station in Tahrir Square, the head of the station — who preferred to remain anonymous — told Egypt Independent on Wednesday that the buses have not been sent to their station yet.
However, at Dawran Shoubra station, the new mini-buses were available.
This line starts its trip from Shubra and passes through several stops including Ramsis, Nasr City, Masaken Sheraton, and eventually arrives at Cairo International Airport.
