Cabinet approves JD4.1 mln to subsidise operational costs for public transport operators
Under the proposed restructuring, a study will be conducted to establish a Board of Commissioners for the LTRC, similar to the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC), enhancing the commission's independence, governance and its vital service and economic roles. Relevant legislation will be amended accordingly.
The new Board of Commissioners will consist of the Chairperson, the Commissioner for Passenger Transport, the Commissioner for Freight Transport and the Commissioner for Rail Transport.
Additionally, there is potential to include a Specialised Transport Commissioner to oversee other modes such as tourism, school and university transport, smart applications and more. The goal is to reduce workload and emphasise the emerging transport models.
This restructuring follows a comprehensive study of the current state of the Land Transport Regulatory Commission, its mandated tasks, challenges and obstacles.
The objective is to improve the commission's efficiency and effectiveness in advancing the Kingdom's transport system, which alligns with the objectives of the Economic Modernisation Vision.
Recent developments in the transport sector include the launch of scheduled services between several governorates, supported by treasury funds, such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) connecting Amman to Madaba.
The Council of Ministers approved to earmark JOD4.1 million to subsidise operational costs for public transport operators from June through the end of the year, based on global fuel prices.
The Ministry of Transport and the Land Transport Regulatory Commission will develop the implementation mechanism. Support will be disbursed monthly at rates of JOD100 for a medium-sized bus, JOD170 for a large bus, and JOD60 for small vehicles.
The Council decided to exempt Syrian buses entering Jordan from fuel subsidies (diesel), set at JOD80 per bus carrying more than eight passengers, contingent upon reciprocity from the Syrian side to benefit both Jordanian and Syrian operators, reinforcing cooperation between the two countries to enhance trade and transport.
On tourism, the Council approved the draft Tourist Guide Services Regulations for 2025 and the amended Tourist Guide Association Regulations for 2025, preparing them for submission to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau for approval.
The regulations implement provisions of the amended Tourism Law No. (9) of 2024, which replaces licensing requirements with classification and registration via electronic applications, streamlining the licensing process.
Regarding agricultural projects, the Council assigned the Ministry of Water and Irrigation/Jordan Valley Authority to set a maximum land lease of 4,000 dunams in the Wadi Araba region for investment, with exceptions possible based on project viability.
This aims to stimulate economic activity, attract investments and create jobs in the area, supporting the goals of the Economic Modernisation Vision.
The Council approved allocations of land in Al-Ghamr, Umm Mithla, Al-Risha, and Gharandal for food security projects, agricultural ponds and partnership expansion, contributing to national food security and optimising land use.
To enhance healthcare services, the Council authorised the Ministry of Health to proceed with establishing the new Ajloun Comprehensive Health Centre, scheduled for completion in 2026 at a cost of JOD1 million. This aligns with the Quality of Life pillar of the Economic Modernisation Vision.
In environmental efforts, the Council approved a $1.1 million agreement with the United Nations Human Settlements Program for urban greening and afforestation in Sahab, Zarqa Governorate.
The project aims to develop sustainable, resilient urban environments, improve public spaces and address environmental challenges posed by urban expansion.
As part of water infrastructure development, the government approved an investment grant from the Dutch government valued at €30 million for the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project, which aims to supply 300 million cubic meters of potable water annually to address the Kingdom's water shortage.
In energy and mineral resources, the Council approved the Jordan National Petroleum Company's retention of dues amounting to JOD3.4 million from 2024 revenues to support the Risha gas field development, including drilling 80 wells to increase production. The company aims to reach a production target of 418 million cubic feet per day by 2030.
Furthermore, the Council approved land use agreements with Philadelphia Solar (Jordan) and Enertag (Germany) to prepare feasibility studies for green hydrogen projects, part of the government's strategy to develop renewable energy sources.
To stimulate economic activity, the Council decided to exempt companies and taxpayers from fines and fees related to installment payments of income and sales taxes, provided dues are settled by the end of 2025. This measure aims to ease financial burdens and support business continuity.
Additionally, the Council approved establishing a duty-free shop at the sea pier of the Abu Dhabi Ports Company's "New Port" in Aqaba, enhancing border trade and tourism services, in line with existing agreements with the Jordan Duty Free Shops Company.
The Council approved an amended regulation for licensing exchange companies in 2025, allowing them to expand activities, including electronic money transfer services.
Finally, the Council endorsed the Yarmouk University Faculty Regulations for 2025 and the grounds for regulating Sufi orders and tekkes in the Kingdom.
The regulation aims to organise and supervise these institutions under the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, ensuring legal oversight and preventing exploitation.
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