Sayyar set to transform last-mile travel in Muscat

Muscat: The last-mile connectivity in the capital will get a boost with the authorities encouraging ideas put forward by young start-ups.

Sayyar by Omar al Ghafri is one such concept that will allow the development of private feeder bus services in the country.

It will also allow people to book bus services that will pick them from their place of work or home to the next destination at a scheduled time. This can be a shared service as per the options provided by the operator.

According to Al Ghafri, 'Sayyar is a start-up aggregator (on the lines of app-based taxi services), which will allow people to book bus rides currently from a list of 150 buses that are owned by individuals.

Passengers will be able to pick providers who will pick them from their homes and drop at the desired destination. It can be a direct service and more affordable compared to other options.'

Sayyar has also signed an agreement with public transport company Mwasalat to implement feeder route solutions at major public transport stations as a first phase.

Al Ghafri said, 'The feeder bus service will pick customers from their homes to the nearest bus station of the Mwasalat, from where they can continue the onward journey.'

The Sayyar app will provide real-time bus tracking services, details of the feeder bus routes, and notifications to avoid any misunderstandings between the bus operator and the passenger.

The company that has all the necessary permits from the Ministry of Transport and Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) and the Muscat Municipality is currently training the bus drivers or owners.

It is now soft-launching the project, and customers will be able to book services in a month. It will benefit passengers who regularly travel to the old and gas industry.

It may be noted that the government has been working on the Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) service in Muscat through an international company.

DRT is a flexible form of public transport that dynamically adjusts routes and schedules based on passenger demand. Utilizing smaller vehicles, this model extends the reach of public transport into neighborhoods that are not served by traditional bus lines, while minimizing empty runs and significantly reducing operational costs, according to reports.