Bahrain’s Transport and Telecommunications Ministry (MTT) expects the study for its planned light rail network project to be completed in the first half of 2017, according to sources familiar with the project.

The $2.43m studies and architectural design contract was awarded to Spain’s Idom Consulting Engineering Architecture in December last year.

Idom will undertake the required studies and architectural design for the project whose initial phase will cover 25 kilometres with a passenger capacity of 8,000 to 10,000 an hour in each direction.

Based on these studies, the consultant will be reviewing and identifying the best routes and drawing plans and designs including the network development phases, routes, specification and technology.

The scope includes identifying procurement options, budget and drafting request for proposal (RFP) documents, which will set the minimum functional requirements for the first phase of the network.

The light rail project is part of the strategic initiative by the MTT to provide alternative and modern transport solutions to alleviate rising traffic congestion in the kingdom.