Integrated plan proposed to tackle Muscat’s rising traffic congestion

Times News Service

MUSCAT: The Services and Public Utilities Committee of the Shura Council held a meeting on Tuesday with officials from the Royal Oman Police and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning to discuss a proposal aimed at mitigating traffic congestion in Muscat Governorate through the development of a sustainable urban transport system.

The meeting is part of the Committee’s ongoing efforts to examine infrastructure and transport challenges and identify practical, long-term solutions to address rising congestion in the capital area.

At the outset, the Committee received officials from the Royal Oman Police, where Dr. Hamoud Ahmed Al Yahyai, Chairman of the Committee, commended the ROP’s role in regulating traffic movement across the Sultanate and maintaining road safety, particularly amid Muscat’s steady urban and population growth.

The ROP presented an overview of the current traffic situation, highlighting major congestion hotspots and key contributing factors such as the rising number of vehicles, expanding economic activity, and urban expansion in several areas.

It also outlined ongoing measures, including improved intersection management, upgraded traffic signal systems, increased field presence, and the use of modern technologies for traffic monitoring and control.

Officials further reviewed ongoing infrastructure initiatives such as road expansion projects, smart traffic systems, and awareness campaigns aimed at improving road user behaviour and reducing congestion-related pressures.

Committee members stressed the need for stronger coordination between relevant authorities, particularly in major infrastructure projects such as the Muscat Expressway upgrade. They also called for integrated traffic management plans to accompany construction works to minimise disruption, alongside closer alignment between government entities and the ROP.

In a separate session, the Committee met with officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, which highlighted its role in addressing congestion through urban planning and long-term development strategies. The Ministry presented the Greater Muscat Structure Plan, outlining efforts to guide balanced urban growth, improve land-use distribution, and enhance transport integration. 

The presentation also covered plans to strengthen public transport systems, promote human-centred urban design, and address challenges arising from the absence of a comprehensive structural plan in previous years.

Committee members emphasised that sustainable solutions require an integrated approach combining urban planning, population distribution, and mobility needs. They also urged the adoption of innovative approaches to redistribute residential density and ease pressure on high-traffic zones, while calling for faster implementation of immediate measures alongside long-term planning.

The meeting, chaired by H.E. Dr. Hamoud Ahmed Al Yahyai, reflects the Shura Council’s efforts to address national priorities and support the development of a more efficient and sustainable urban transport system in Oman.