Beirut: The Parliamentary Committee on Public Works, Transport, Energy and Water convened for a session at Parliament, chaired by MP Saji Atieh, with the participation of Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rasamny, and committee members. The meeting focused on examining the Ministry of Public Works and Transport's action plan for the current year and discussing significant infrastructure and transport issues.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, following the session, Atieh noted that the committee received a comprehensive presentation of the ministry's work plan, with all aspects thoroughly discussed. Atieh commended Rasamny for the reforms implemented within the ministry, highlighting improvements in administrative performance and oversight of engineering offices, emphasizing that these measures represent a balanced approach aligned with a scientific vision that considers all regions.
Atieh highlighted that the future plan includes crucial components, such as establishing a regulatory authority at the airport, a clear strategy for the transport sector, and a scientific approach to public transport. He also praised the minister's decision to initiate investigations into several files, especially those concerning the temporary committee at Beirut Port. Additionally, Atieh announced an agreement with Rasamny to organize specialized field visits to ports and confirmed that Qlayaat Airport is expected to commence operations within three to four months.
Regarding public transport, Atieh reported that the number of operational buses has reached around 130, with plans for expansion, and expressed gratitude to MP Fouad Makhzoumi for pledging a donation to support the sector. He strongly condemned attacks on public buses and urged the Interior Ministry and security agencies to apprehend those responsible, stressing that the committee would not tolerate the decline of this essential service.
Minister Rasamny remarked that the session was significant, enabling newly appointed directors general and board chairpersons to engage directly with MPs, facilitating communication between the executive and legislative branches. Rasamny explained that each official presented an overview of their plans and projects, allowing for interactive discussions on priorities and challenges, and emphasized the necessity for modern legislation to support reform.
On the topic of airports, Rasamny reaffirmed the government's commitment to launching Qlayaat Airport before the summer season, alongside ongoing projects at Rafic Hariri International Airport. Concerning public transport, the Minister condemned acts of vandalism against buses, noting that offenders have been identified following coordination with the Interior Minister and security chiefs. He announced plans to operate 230 buses in the current phase, increasing to 400 buses to ensure balanced coverage across all regions.
Rasamny also disclosed ongoing studies to reactivate railway links between Tripoli, Aboudieh, and Arida, as well as a feasibility study to connect Tripoli Port to the Syrian border, underscoring that accountability remains a cornerstone of sustainable reform.