Expansion of bus network gives Manama terminal life

Manama

The Manama bus terminal bustles with activities nowadays, thanks to the increased passenger traffic helped by the expansion of bus network.

There had been only 35 public buses in the Kingdom, when the new bus transport firm, Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC), took over the transport network in Bahrain. But after August 1, when the full-fledged transport system was launched, the scenario changed completely. According to BPTC sources, as many as 142 public buses are currently plying in the Kingdom, covering almost all parts of Bahrain.

Cafeteria operator at the Manama Terminal, Basit said the primary reason for the increase in passenger movement is the availability of bus services till late night. 

“Even earlier, people from different parts of Bahrain used to come here, especially during weekends. But they used to leave Manama early or they wouldn’t get a transport back home. Now the passengers can confidently stay back till late hours as there is late night bus service,” he said. 

The authorities have also launched a number of facilities, making the journey convenient for the passengers. A control room has been set up next to the bus terminal and many ticket vending machines have also been placed. Moreover, BPTC personnel are stationed at the terminal to guide the passengers, in case of any difficulty. 

Basit added the passenger movement increases during evenings, and is the highest on weekends. Cafeterias around the terminal has reported an increase in turnover. 

Bus timings, still a worry

In spite of the increased traffic in the Manama Terminal, bus timings continue to bother passengers. Due to regular traffic blocks, the bus drivers are not able to stick to their timings. 

Roshan, a regular traveller between Salmaniya and East Riffa, said, “According to the time table, there are buses between Salmaniya and East Riffa every 20 minutes. But sometimes, especially in the evening, I have to wait up to one hour to catch a bus towards East Riffa. And the drivers keep blaming traffic congestion. If timing problem is solved, Bahrain’s public bus transport system would succeed in achieving its purpose,” he said.