Lebanon (Enmaeya News) — Lebanon is slowly improving its public transportation system with a growing bus network launched in 2023. This change comes as the country continues to face a deep economic crisis and poor infrastructure.
The public buses now run on 11 routes across Beirut and nearby areas. Some lines even reach the north, south, and east of the country. The project is a joint effort between the government and a private company. Buses are equipped with GPS and security cameras. A ride costs about 70,000 L.L (around 80 U.S. cents) and can be paid in cash.
Lebanon has more than 2 million registered vehicles and has lacked proper public transport for decades. After the civil war (1975–1990), people relied more on private cars. But since the 2019 economic collapse, high fuel prices and lower incomes have made car ownership harder for many.
Although the bus service officially started in July 2023, some routes were paused for a long time. Private bus owners also protested, with some even damaging public buses out of fear of losing customers.
“We're working to expand the network to reach Beirut Airport,” said Ziad Nasr, head of the Railway and Public Transport Authority. “We welcome support from any country — Arab nations, France, or even China.”
Today, about 4,500 people use the buses each day, up from just a few hundred last year. France donated about half of the current 100 buses.
The World Bank says Lebanon’s heavy use of private cars is “no longer sustainable,” especially with rising poverty and high car expenses. A World Bank report also said transport is the second-biggest cause of pollution in the country, after the power sector.
Other public transport projects are also starting. In Zahle, four hybrid buses now run on both fuel and electricity. The UN Development Program (UNDP) is also planning to launch four fully electric buses powered by solar energy, which will travel between Beirut and Jbeil.
“We’re preparing to launch clean and sustainable transport options,” said Nabil Mneimneh, head of the UNDP’s transport project in Lebanon.
Despite challenges, Lebanon’s new bus system offers hope for better and more affordable transportation for the future.
