Pre Metro Tension

There’s a tense feeling in the air as the metro system in Dubai is about to open. Most Dubai residents are eager to ride the rail, (though it should be said, they are not eager enough to buy the electronic tickets needed in advance, giving the authorities a headache about crowd control when the system opens to the public.) Everyone it seems, regardless of class, colour or creed is enthusiastic about the much needed rapid transport system.

Even after the dust has settled on the 10th, it will still be business as usual for the plant that has been building the network. Welding kits will buzz and crackle through the night while access platforms whir and hum in a bid to get the 19 Red line stations that will not open for the launch finished as quickly as possible. Down the track, work on the Green line will continue around the clock in a bid to get the Al Nahda side of the network running.

Some might be disappointed that we aren’t going to be able to ride to all zones from day one, but really this is a triumph of plant management. Many cities have light rail systems, but how many would dare to build all phases all at once? I personally hate the word ‘vision’, but just three years ago, before a forest of cranes sprang up, a giant casting yard was founded and self-propelled modular transporters were wheeled in, a dream was all it was.

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FEATURED COMMENT From: Jaleel Nazirudeen Health Safety & Environmental Manager Siemens/Doosan/Samsung/Fichtner Construction Consortium Ru   2 Comments Read more comments »

The funny thing is that, even in these days of recessions and collapses, the Metro is not Dubai’s largest ongoing project – that particular accolade goes to the new airport. However, the sight of machinery moving right under people’s noses on a project the general public was interested in certainly makes it the most visible.

So then, as we whisk through the cool, air conditioned tunnels and on the stilts above the stifling heat of Sheikh Zayed Road, let us celebrate this achievement of engineering over nature as well as the hard work and heavy industry that has made it all possible. Just don’t leave it too late to buy your ‘Nol’ card.

PS. On a personal note, I prefer monorail systems over traditional tracks. Then again, I’ve always had a one track mind.