Dubai Metro: Dubai residents are facing ongoing disruptions on the Dubai Metro network as the city recovers from the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the United Arab Emirates. The deluge caused widespread flooding, impacting several Dubai metro stations and necessitating maintenance work on both the red and green lines.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is working diligently to restore the Dubai Metro full service, but commuters are advised to check the latest updates before traveling.
Here’s a breakdown of the current Dubai Metro situation:
Red Line:
- Dubai metro are operating in both directions on two stretches:
- Centrepoint to Expo 2020 and Jabal Ali to UAE Exchange.
- However, several stations remain closed: Energy, Equiti, Mashreq, and ONPASSIVE.
- Reports suggest service may resume between Business Bay and Mall of the Emirates later in the day, but confirmation is pending.
Green Line:
- Limited service is available on two sections:
- Etisalat & e station to Abu Hail.
- Creek station to Gold Souq.
Free Shuttle Buses Deployed:
The RTA has deployed free shuttle buses to serve stations impacted by flooding. This will hopefully alleviate some of the travel difficulties faced by commuters.
Travel Only if Necessary:
The RTA advises residents to only travel if absolutely essential due to the ongoing disruptions.
Extended Metro Hours on Tuesday:
In an attempt to ease movement during the peak of the storms, the RTA extended metro operating hours on Tuesday, April 16th, until 3:00 AM on Wednesday, April 17th.
Unprecedented Rainfall Causes Disruptions:
The current situation is a direct consequence of the unprecedented rainfall that battered Dubai this week. The sheer volume of water overwhelmed drainage systems and caused flooding in various parts of the city, including metro stations. This has necessitated maintenance work to ensure the safety and reliability of the network.
Dubai Metro Disruption: What to Do Now?
- Check for the latest updates on the RTA website or social media channels before your journey.
- Consider alternative transportation options like buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services if your usual metro route is affected.
- Be patient and allow extra travel time due to potential delays.
- Only travel if absolutely necessary, especially if you can work remotely or postpone non-essential trips.
The RTA is working tirelessly to restore full service as soon as possible. By following these guidelines and staying informed, Dubai residents can navigate the temporary disruptions and reach their destinations safely.