Recognizing the need for a modern transportation system to accommodate the travel demands of the city’s rapidly growing population and relieve severe traffic congestion, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Rail Agency developed the Dubai Integrated Rail Master Plan.
The master plan incorporates the existing and proposed metro and tram network in Dubai and provides the framework within which the preparation of individual transport projects are carried out by indicating the logical sequencing of each project, the time frame within which they should be implemented, the interfaces necessary for overall success of the transport program and the economic benefits of, and justification for, the projects.
The objective was to provide planners, designers, and developers with the framework to carry out programs that will meet future demands, improve accessibility standards and create a modern rail network. The RTA Rail Agency designated WSP to undertake consultancy services for a comprehensive forecasting study to ascertain future demand for public transport based on expected population and economic growth and plan for the implementation of rail infrastructure projects to meet the demand.
Assessing All Viable Options
We developed a detailed Risk and Opportunity Plan. The plan helped guide the project team and stakeholders to identify and control the risks and opportunities associated with the design, construction, commissioning, and operation phases of the project. Following a series of workshops, a comprehensive “live” document, Risk Register was created. Actions to mitigate the risks and enhance the opportunities were identified and then acted on. This document was identified as an important tool throughout all stages of development of this strategic project.
Our urban and transport planners worked closely with the RTA Rail Agency on the development of corridor and network concepts ensuring that rail lines brought minimal impact on affected communities. We also developed generic metro station sizing and examined positioning, through analysis of existing infrastructure and utilities, land availability and the proposed metro station locations, to maximize potential ridership.
