Work apace to implement Bus Rapid Transit System in city

Officials claimed that they receive many complaints from commuters who face time-consuming travel due to heavy traffic. To solve the problem, the state transport department mulled over implementing BRTS. 

Six months ago, the department had identified two companies— Chennai-based ICRA Management Consulting Services Limited and Brazil-based Logit consulting sector, to conduct studies and submit proposals in this regard.  Further, the department roped in Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) and Chennai City Connect to look into the feasibility of the project. 

“The public transport system is a priority for the state government. Unlike in the past, Chennai is witnessing heavy traffic on almost all the arterial and interior roads. We recommended to the transport department to conduct a study on implementing BRTS on long routes. If such a system is implemented successfully, traffic management or regulation will become easier,” said Daniel Robinson, Programme Manager, Chennai City Connect. 

“Long routes that were prone to heavy traffic were first selected. In cities like Ahmedabad and Indore the BRTS systems have proven to be effective,” he added. When contacted, a senior transport official said that they had conducted a feasibility study for the BRTS. “However, it will take a long time to bring this system into effect, as it is a lengthy process,” the official said.