Amman: The Council of Ministers has given the green light to extensive reforms spanning transport, environment, and economic sectors in a strategic move to support the country's vision of modernisation. The Ministry of Transport has been tasked with implementing necessary procedures to restructure the Land Transport Regulatory Commission (LTRC), clarifying the roles and responsibilities between the Ministry and the LTRC.
According to Jordan News Agency, the proposed restructuring will involve a study to establish a Board of Commissioners for the LTRC, akin to the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission (CARC). This change is intended to bolster the commission's independence and governance, enhancing its vital service and economic roles. The legislation will be amended to reflect these changes, and the new Board will include the Chairperson and Commissioners for Passenger, Freight, and Rail Transport, with potential for a Specialised Transport Commissioner to manage emerging transport models.
The restructuring decision comes after a thorough examination of the LTRC's current state, its challenges, and obstacles. The goal is to enhance the commission's efficiency and effectiveness in improving the Kingdom's transport system, aligning with the Economic Modernisation Vision. Recent initiatives in the transport sector include the launch of services like the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) connecting Amman to Madaba, supported by treasury funds.
Additionally, the Council has allocated JOD4.1 million to subsidise public transport operators' operational costs through the year-end, with assistance disbursed monthly. In a related move, Syrian buses entering Jordan will be exempt from fuel subsidies, fostering cooperation between Jordanian and Syrian operators to improve trade and transport.
In the tourism sector, the Council has approved draft regulations for Tourist Guide Services and the amended Tourist Guide Association Regulations for 2025, streamlining licensing processes. On the agricultural front, the Ministry of Water and Irrigation/Jordan Valley Authority has been directed to set a maximum land lease in Wadi Araba to attract investments and create jobs, in line with the Economic Modernisation Vision.
For healthcare, the Council has authorised the establishment of the Ajloun Comprehensive Health Centre, scheduled for completion in 2026 at a cost of JOD1 million, enhancing healthcare services as part of the Quality of Life pillar of the modernisation vision.
Environmental efforts include a $1.1 million agreement with the United Nations Human Settlements Program for urban greening in Sahab, Zarqa Governorate, promoting sustainable urban environments. In water infrastructure, a significant investment from the Dutch government will fund the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project, providing crucial potable water to address shortages.
In the energy sector, the Jordan National Petroleum Company will retain JOD3.4 million from 2024 revenues to support Risha gas field development, aiming for increased production by 2030. Land use agreements with Philadelphia Solar and Enertag for green hydrogen projects reflect the government's renewable energy strategy.
To stimulate economic activity, companies and taxpayers will be exempt from fines and fees related to tax installments if dues are settled by the end of 2025. Furthermore, the Council has approved the establishment of a duty-free shop at the new port in Aqaba, boosting border trade and tourism services.
Finally, the Council has endorsed regulations for licensing exchange companies and the Yarmouk University Faculty Regulations for 2025, along with guidelines for regulating Sufi orders and tekkes, ensuring legal oversight and preventing exploitation.