Anniversary milestone: MoUs and agreements to help build integrated and smart public transport system MUSCAT: On the 50th anniversary of its founding, the Oman National Transport Company (Mwasalat), the public transport arm of the Asyad Group, signed four memorandums of partnership and cooperation with a number of government and private agencies, to build an integrated and smart public transport system that enhances competitiveness and the provision of various services.

The memorandums and agreements signed by Mwasalat included a commercial agreement with OTE Group, the local distributor of Hyundai in the Sultanate of Oman, to start pilot projects for vehicles that run on clean energy using hydrogen.

Another MoU was signed with the Ministry of Social Development to train and qualify 100 drivers from among those enrolled with Al-Wafa Centers, as well as to rehabilitate people with disabilities, establish a child care center for preventive driving, and provide discounted tickets for people with disabilities, the elderly, and people with limited income.

Separately, an MoU was signed with the International College of Engineering and Technology to train Omani job aspirants exploring entrepreneurial opportunities in the field of vehicle repair and maintenance.

Further, Mwasalat entered into a strategic partnership with Sultan Qaboos University to test biofuel applications in its vehicles and promote renewable energy initiatives.

The ceremony, which was held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center, was held under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Dr Fahd bin al Julanda al Said, President of Sultan Qaboos University, in the presence of a number of dignitaries and CEOs.

During the ceremony, Mwasalat announced the launch of electronic transportation tickets linked to the smart transportation system, targeting a number of segments of society and different age groups. Mwasalat reviewed a number of achievements and stations that reflected its distinction in the field of public transport and its commitment to providing world-leading services that facilitate the movement of public transport users and link the various cities and governorates of the Sultanate of Oman.

The chief guest inaugurated a special postal stamp on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Mwasalat, in cooperation with Oman Post and Asyad Express.

In 2019, Mwasalat transported a record 9.2 million passengers on various land routes, more than 241,000 passengers on ferries, in addition to the carriage of around 60,000 vehicles and approximately 140,000 tonnes of goods.