Public buses, government school buses and Doha Metro feeder buses will gradually shift to electric, authorities announced.

Qatar is expected to boast the world’s first emission-free public transport system for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Ministry of Transport and Communications [MOTC] said, in a move that will see the Gulf state turn 25 percent of its public buses into electric vehicles.

The decision comes as part of the country’s 2030 vision, which includes reducing harmful carbon emissions as concerns over a possible expansion of Qatar’s carbon footprint rise over the next decade.

This is also part of MOTC’s efforts of delivering the electric vehicle strategy for providing an integrated, world-class, multimodal transportation system that offers safe, reliable and eco-friendly services, authorities added.

The plans will also see Mowasalat (Karwa) join forces with the MOTC to electrify all taxis in the coming years. Phase one of the move includes purchasing at least 140 electric taxis this year that will be deployed for service around Hamad International Airport. 

The installation process to accommodate the electric vehicles will also take place in the first phase. More than 100 electric vehicle parking spaces will be set up in strategic, accessible areas.

Kahramaa is also coordinating with MOTC to establish an integrated network of electric vehicle charging devices, with 11 chargers already installed and at least 30 more to be installed and activated this year. Additionally, some 100 more will be placed in 2021.

Read also: Qatar’s sustainability-focused 2022 stadiums to leave ‘significant’ World Cup legacy

Qatar also plans to install the largest solar-powered electric charging station in Lusail City which will be connected to all stations. 

The MOTC said it has also finalised developing standards and specifications for electric vehicles, which have been endorsed by the Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology. 

With sustainability playing a crucial part in delivering the games, the electric transport vehicles are expected to be useful during the 2022 World Cup – making it the first championship where electric mass transit buses are deployed.

According to the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, at least 1.5 million fans from around the world are expected to visit Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022, highlighting the importance of health and environment for visitors and local residents.

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