Walid Nassar reports
YESTERDAY… In a dialogue that opens a window onto tomorrow, www.aliplomasy.com (Arabic English editions) engaged with the Chairman of the Public Transport Authority, exploring the profound transformation underway within Egypt’s public transportation system—one that charts a confident course toward green mobility, reduced emissions, and smarter urban living.
The Public Transport Authority has witnessed a remarkable evolution in its bus fleet, expanding the use of vehicles powered by natural gas and electricity as part of a broader commitment to sustainable transport and environmental responsibility, aimed at improving air quality and urban life.
In this context, the Authority has begun operating a new electronic fare payment system, branded “Tawally”, enabling passengers to pay their fares via smart cards or mobile phones—a step that reflects the shift from paper to digital, and from congestion to seamless mobility.
Major General Engineer Essam El-Sheikh, Chairman of the Public Transport Authority, affirmed that the project is part of a comprehensive strategic plan to modernize the Authority and transition the bus fleet toward clean energy sources, enhancing operational efficiency and elevating the quality of services provided to citizens.
He explained that the first phase of the electronic payment system has been launched on approximately 300 buses across Greater Cairo, with plans to expand the system to 1,800 buses by 2027. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize public transport, ease traffic congestion, and introduce user-friendly smart payment solutions.
El-Sheikh further noted that the Authority is in the process of converting 1,962 buses from diesel to natural gas, a project being implemented over six phases. The first and second phases—each covering 327 buses—have already been completed, while the third phase is scheduled to begin during March and April.
Concluding his remarks, the Chairman revealed that the Authority has contracted for the manufacture of 100 electric buses in partnership with a private-sector company, with delivery expected by mid-2027—a decisive step toward quieter streets, cleaner cities, and a future where public transport moves in harmony with the environment.
