A QF tram in Education City.
Doha: In a bid to promote sustainability through utilising eco-friendly means of alternative transportation, Qatar Foundation (QF) is arranging another car free day tomorrow.
Car free days are transformative disruptions of the business-as-usual approach for all to explore mobility alternatives already available within Education City.
“Qatar Foundation’s main objective is empowering the community through education, research, and community development. And one of the core values of the foundation is to spread environmental awareness and foster the culture of public transportation. Whether it’s reducing carbon footprint and traffic congestions in Education City or improving air quality, car free day contributes to driving the community to a healthier lifestyle,” Tooraj Shadnia, Director of Integrated Transportation System, City Operation at QF, told The Peninsula.
Tomorrow’s car free day will be arranged ahead of Qatar Environment Day, which falls on February 26 and the initiative reflects QF’s belief that sustainability is everyone’s responsibility and that by adopting sustainable behaviours and mindsets as individuals. QF can contribute to a collective effort that aims to bring positive change to society.
Through the initiative, QF is demonstrating its commitment to contributing to building a post hydrocarbon, sustainable nation, and setting an example within its community.
QF arranged car free day on National Sport Day, which received positive feedback from the community.
“The variety of outdoor activities, organised by the Community Development team, encouraged the rest of the community to take part, and we witnessed many families enjoying their day at Education City. To facilitate their ride, we ensured that people were aware of the designated parking and the tram line stops if they chose to use the public transportation service. We were able to successfully register around 10,000 rides with no reported incidents,” said Shadnia.
QF launched the Education City Tram as a pioneering transport system that brings a new form of sustainable travel to Qatar and elevates the nation’s profile as a nerve centre of innovation. The tram has free wi-fi and has been designed to provide a comfortable commute for all passengers.
“Our first and foremost concern is the security of the passengers using the tram. It’s important for us that everyone is provided with the right guidelines, is well informed of the designated crossing points, the distance to the railway lines or cross tracks, etc. We aimed at providing a reliable and safe service throughout the day, with trams arriving at each tram stop every few minutes,” Shadnia added.
Car free day arranged on National Sport Day motivated people to contribute to QF’s mission to achieve sustainability, while enjoying a variety of sports activities, according to Zamel Al Otaibi, Media Relations Specialist at QF.
“On the National Sport Day, 1,859 people of different age groups participated in the activities organised in Education City. Almost 1,500 registered through the Education City application and 1,334 tickets were booked online ahead of the event. The numbers show that the initiative was a great success,” he said.
On car free day, to access the parking lots or drop-off points, visitors to Education City can use either gate 1 or gate 5. Park the car, then use the Education City Tram, or a scooter, or walk to the destination. For Oxygen Park Parking, parking access is next to gate 5. Gate 3 and gate 14 are designated for special pass holders only.
All the other gates will be closed on car-free days. Education City Golf Club and Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre south gates will remain open and give access only to those facilities.
