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Residents see traffic jams as a 'good sign' as Dubai reopens

Dubai - Confidence expressed that congestion is a good sign for the economy and jobs affected by Covid-19.

As Dubai roared back to business on Wednesday, motorists driving from Sharjah and out of the emirate's busiest neighbourhoods witnessed significant tailbacks. Surprisingly, many residents viewed these congestions in a positive light, saying they're signs of better days to come.
By Wednesday evening, traffic jams returned to major roads connecting Dubai and Sharjah.
Al Ittihad Road, Al Khail, Airport Tunnel and Mohamed bin Zayed roads saw build-ups as motorists drove their way back home after their first work-day in several weeks. By 6pm, the characteristic bumper-to-bumper traffic emerged, as people rushed back to beat Sharjah's 8pm sterilisation curfew. 
Expat Alan Maer was among those who got stuck in traffic. "It's been a while since I saw such busy roads. I think this is a good sign for the economy and for our livelihoods, especially as we feel the impact of the pandemic," he said. 
With businesses and offices reopening at 50 per cent capacity, commuters found their way to work, something they haven't done in more than two months.
Sibi Michael, an advertising professional, felt confident as he went back to his routine, commuting from the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro station.
"I work near Abu Baqer Siddiqui Metro station. I expect things to get better in the coming days. I feel confident stepping out because as long as we maintain social-distancing norms, I don't see why things cannot go back to normal," Michael said.
 
'Public transport is a safe option'
Public transport, including buses and the Dubai Metro, became extremely busy as the day progressed. But several commuters said they felt safe on the Metro, thanks to the efficiency of the Roads and Transport Authority's (RTA) staff.
With safe distance and hygiene markers posted all across the Metro stations, riders were assured that safety protocols are all in place.
Most passengers were on their way to offices, some were about to see family members, and a few headed for medical appointments.
April Cotaoi, a data-entry professional who took the Metro to go to a money-exchange centre, said: "I think as long as people maintain social distance, it is safe to be out and about. The RTA employees at the Dubai Metro help commuters stay safe, thanks to the constant monitoring, safety markers, and hygiene instructions."
Sreedev Menon, an airline professional with Air India, has been taking the Metro since May 5 and he said his commute has always been smooth.
"I use the Metro every day. Since there are social-distancing norms to be followed, sometimes I have to wait a bit before getting on the Metro to our office in Deira," said Menon, who lives in Rashidiya.
By midday, neighbourhoods such as Karama and Bur Dubai were bustling with activity.
Sachin Nagare, a Karama resident, stepped out of his home in search of a job in the food-and-beverage sector.
"Due to the pandemic, I lost my job two months ago. Today, I found it easy to step out of home in search of a new job and also visit the Consulate General of India," he said.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com