Riyadh Residents Seek Alternatives to Beat Traffic Congestion
In Riyadh, traffic congestion has become a major concern for residents, prompting them to look for stress-free and cost-effective alternatives for their daily commute.
Some residents have opted for walking or cycling for short distances, while others are turning to carpooling and ride-sharing to save money.
Public transportation, such as buses and trains, has also emerged as a popular and affordable choice for those who prefer not to drive.
Residents Share Their Commuting Solutions
Fatimah Al-Hajj, a resident of north Riyadh, takes the bus to work every day, saving money with a monthly ticket priced at only SR140 ($37).
Turki Al-Shehri, who works in Digital City, uses a combination of a car and electric scooter for his daily commute, cutting his travel time significantly.
While these alternatives offer advantages, they also come with drawbacks, such as impracticality for long distances or extreme weather conditions.
Proposed Solutions for Traffic Woes
According to senior traffic engineer Ralph Wilczynski, the root cause of traffic issues in Riyadh is the lack of transportation options beyond cars.
Wilczynski emphasized the need for a holistic approach that includes trains, trams, buses, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and autonomous vehicles to transform the city’s commuting habits.
Riyadh’s Future Transport Plans
Authorities in Riyadh have outlined plans to address traffic congestion, with the upcoming metro and bus lines, Green Riyadh project, Sports Boulevard, and King Salman Park aimed at creating a more walkable and sustainable city.
Saudi Arabia’s Transport and Logistics Services Minister Saleh Al-Jasser announced new technologies and legislation to reduce traffic jams, with $18.6 billion allocated to upgrade Riyadh’s road network.