The proposed study, due to be initiated soon, will look at opportunities for integrating a future rapid transport system envisaged across the capital city with the national rail network, now officially known as Oman Rail. That interface between the national rail network and the proposed Muscat City rapid transport system will take place somewhere near Muscat International Airport where the main passenger station, dubbed Muscat Central Station, is being planned.
According to officials, a number of options for the location of Muscat Central Station have been developed so far. But in choosing the most ideal location for the establishment of the central station, authorities will look at the site’s suitability and proximity to the alignment of the national rail network, it is pointed out.
Plans for a rapid transport system for Muscat underscore the earnestness with which the government, represented by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, is forging ahead in its goal to make rail-based passenger and freight transportation services a reality in the country. Also assisting the Ministry on this front, particularly in long-range planning and prefeasibility studies, is the Supreme Council for Planning.
Conceived as a powerful new driver of economic development and a logistics game-changer, Oman Rail will provide connectivity with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) rail network through the UAE. Further connectivity with Yemen and other GCC states is envisaged in the future.
