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Every challenge comes with two options: take it or leave it!
Dating back to the Garden of Eden until the recent pandemic, the challenges accepted always came with hidden opportunities for those who took it up. Similar to every challenge, not every change seems appealing or desirable at first. It takes test of time before getting accepted.
The article, ‘Bus rides continue to soar in Bahrain’ (April 2, 2026) reported consistent upward trajectory in the use of the Red bus over last four years since 2022. Launched in 2015, then upgraded in 2019, the service has undergone several changes in terms of ride quality, routes, stops, and travel comfort.
While the article places its hopes on the upcoming metro network to boost red bus usage, it would also be worthwhile to invest in immediate upgrades by launching a fourth‑generation fleet. This could include an expanded route network, the introduction of monthly, quarterly, and annual bus passes, free weekend travel for students, unlimited free rides for senior members and children under 14, free rides on public holidays and female‑only buses operating two to four times a day.
With the current war situation affecting the petrol and diesel prices, it’s time to publicise green commuting, through national campaigns with catchy slogans like – Think smart, travel green; Go red, go green; Small ride, big changes; Catch the bus, not the stress; Drive less, live more; From congestion to connection, and Bus smart to name a few.
Some research on what will motivate people, specially youth, to use this service more would also be timely. A stitch in time saves nine!
Hence now is the time to save on resources – be it food, water, and fuel. Habits, routines and informed choices can be developed now on the immediate basis seizing the current opportunity which may in the long run positively offset over reliance on fossil fuels and target successful achievement of sustainable development goals for the Vision 2030.
Neesha Khan Malik
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