Madinah transport plan proves to be a blessing

A new round-the-clock public bus transport scheme has been introduced in Madinah to facilitate travel of worshippers and visitors and reduce congestion of vehicles near the mosque.
The governorate’s move also coincides with Ramadan, when millions of Muslim faithful visit the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
The service is now available from four centers to transport people to the Prophet’s Mosque.
It covers Prince Muhammad Sports City, Khalediya Parking, Sayed Al-Shuhada Square and Aliya Mall.
“The service will also spread a culture of using public transport among citizens and expats,” said Muhammad bin Saif, a media spokesman of the Madinah governorate.
The service was expanded this year on the directives of Madinah Gov. Prince Faisal bin Salman, who had set up a special panel to bolster the system.
“This will reduce the number of vehicles going toward the mosque, especially during peak hours such as Maghrib and Isha prayers. It will also reduce environmental pollution,” Saif said.
“This service will enable a large number of people to reach the mosque with ease, especially for iftar, and save the time they spend on looking for parking space,” said Abdul Elah Al-Johani, a Saudi.
He requested authorities to continue the service throughout the year.
The service is available for SR 2 (one-way). It was introduced last year but with only one line.
“This year the service covers different areas,” said Ali Al-Marwani.
It will serve a large number of citizens and expatriates who do not have cars.