RIYADH, 15 July 2003 — Minister of Transport Dr. Jabara Al-Seraisry has told Arab News that the introduction of road tolls is still being studied by the Supreme Economic Commission.
The minister did not say when the commission would reach a decision.
The tolls, if approved, would be imposed on new roads only, and only where they are not the sole means of transportation between areas, the minister said.
The minister also said that a committee had been set up by the Supreme Economic Commission to make final recommendations for the appointment of a financial adviser and a technical adviser for the railway expansion project. The committee will call upon local and foreign investors to invest in the railway project.
But the minister said the sector would not be open for private sector investment until the current concession to the Saudi Arabian Public Transport Company expires, which could take up to seven years.
Further to reports in the press about difficulties in the transport sector, the minister said seasonal fluctuation in freight rates were normal around the world, and the ministry did not wish to spark a fuel price war between concerned parties.
