Beirut: The Ministry of Public Works and Transport on Thursday issued a statement clarifying recent reports regarding its request to fill vacant positions at the Railways and Public Transport Authority, stressing the authority's central role in launching and expanding Lebanon's public transport project.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the ministry explained that the authority is implementing a comprehensive plan to expand bus routes nationwide, supported by the gradual introduction of a modern fleet through direct procurement or donations. The number of public buses is expected to reach 220 this year.

The ministry noted that filling vacancies is essential to protect the authority's assets, exceeding 10 million square meters of land, which face ongoing encroachments, while the railway department currently operates with only five employees.

Strengthening staffing levels, the ministry added, is also key to safeguarding public property, preventing waste of public funds, and ensuring effective oversight, dismissing claims that the move is linked to imminent retirements.