SHARJAH // Water mist sprayers could be introduced in waiting areas at Al Jubeil bus station to cool down passengers sweltering in the outdoor heat.
Sharjah Road and transport Authority said it was investigating whether it had the electrical power capacity to operate fans to spray the mist.
Ahmad Al Qayed, head of the authority’s support department, said: “We are coordinating with Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority to see if there is a capability to add the fans with water misters to ease the plight of customers.
“Currently there are fans available at the waiting areas and we might change some of them in the near future.”
Bus passengers in Sharjah have complained of lack of fans and air-conditioned waiting areas at the station.
Rohipp Sing, 45, a teacher from India, said waiting on the benches for the bus was at times unbearable. “Sometimes it is packed with commuters and we have to stand away from the fans until the bus departs. Even if the fans were working, they would blow hot air.” he said.
He also complained that bus drivers do not let passengers inside the buses.
“Some of the bus drivers keep the doors shut while they are away, that keeps us waiting and bearing the hot weather for an extended time until they return,” he said.
“They should keep the doors open for passengers to get away from the summer heat.”
Daniel Mkatia, 29, from Ghana, said the authority should have air conditioning installed in the bus waiting area.
“In other emirates there are air-conditioned waiting areas. Why not have the same here?” said Mr Mkatia, who works as a cook. “It will make our waiting time more bearable than the dire situation here.”
Mohammaed Radi, 31, an Egyptian, said he avoids taking buses in the summer months,
“Between July and August, I use the illegal taxis that tout for business near the Rolla bus station and Al Jubeil,” he said.
“They are a bit more expensive that buses, but at least you reach your destination with out waiting under the scorching sun.”
tzriqat@thenational.ae
