Positive feedback on Amman metro system

Study conducted to coincide plans by the capital to build a comprehensive transportation network

A study conducted by the Chinese Railway Engineering Corporation (CREM) has confirmed that the topography of the city allows the implementation of the Amman Metro, according to the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM).

The study was conducted following a memorandum of understanding signed in December 2016 between the two parties, The Jordan Times reported.

CREM conducted a field study in the capital with the aim of analysing the potential path the metro would take if established in Amman.

The municipality described the favourable results as “very positive” and “encouraging,” noting that CREM is currently preparing a more detailed study on the implementation of the metro in the city, which is expected to connect the north and south of the city through a single line.

Furthermore, the official said that, if the project was found feasible, it would be implemented in parallel with the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), with a common station connecting both systems.

This falls in line with plans by the capital to build a comprehensive transportation network where the two systems would work together.

Once completed, the study will be submitted to the GAM later this year, along with the estimated cost and the detailed plans for the project.

The municipality will study the feasibility of the project, including construction and operations.

Officials say that if it takes off, the project will be conducted under a DBOT (design, construction, operation, transfer) model, adding that other options are yet to be considered.

A metro system would reduce the “frustration” of commuters facing daily transportation hustle, the report said, stressing that many complaints were expressed over the lack of regulations in the bus service earlier this year.

The population is sceptical however, and believe that raising funds will be a major challenge.

The report also found that this wasn’t the first time such a study was done. A French company conducted a study in 2010, with no favourable results drawn.