Focus on doubling public transport

BANGALORE:  Physical integration of multimodal transport must happen at the design stage itself and the details of integration with other modes of transport must be embedded in the detailed project report (DPR) itself, according to K Rajaraman, Managing Director of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL). Speaking at a seminar on ‘Doubling Public Transport’ in the city on Thursday, Rajaraman said that Chennai aims to increase the share of public transport users to 46 percent by 2026. “This would include steps to increase the quality of supporting infrastructure like footpaths and cycling lanes as well as the non motorised index,” he said.He said that the CMRL had integrated various modes of transport like bus, railway, sub-urban rail and mass rapid transit systems with the help of the Chennai Unified Metro Transport Authority (CUMTA) Act. “The next step is systems integration across various agencies. This will involve a common software and ticketing system which will pose a challenge,” Rajaraman said. However, he stressed on the importance of holding patient negotiations with all stakeholders since this would lead to good results like permissions to set up Metro stations within railway stations and even the Chennai Airport. “We have set ourselves a target of 2015 for the entire project and even though cooperation needed much time, it is worth the effort,” he said. Also speaking on the occasion, BMRCL MD N Sivasailam said thecompany intends to create major integrated transit hubs at Majestic, Byappanahalli and Hessarghatta Cross.” “A common ticketing system with BMTC would make the single biggest impact in Metro operations and talks are currently on for the same,” he said. Sivasailam also announced that BMRCL would also develop footpaths on 250 metres on either sides of the Metro Stations.