4 hours Ago By Vivek Narayanan
The goal is to create a hierarchical route network where different modes of transport complement each other rather than compete CHENNAI: The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority ( CUMTA ) has launched a study to improve the city's public transport system. The study, covering the vast Chennai Metropolitan Area of 5,904 sq km, aims at creating a seamlessly integrated network of buses, trains and last-mile connectivity options. At the heart of this initiative is the recognition that buses remain the backbone of Chennai's public transport system.
Despite the presence of metro rail and suburban trains, buses operated by MTC and TNSTC continue to be the preferred mode of transport for millions of daily commuters. The study, to be conducted by Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System Ltd, will involve extensive surveys between November 25, 2024, and January 15, 2025. Survey teams will fan out across the city, gathering data from passengers on buses, at terminals, metro stations and various transport hubs.
They will also interact with auto and cab drivers to understand the dynamics of intermediate public transport services. The study also aims at bringing a structure to the currently unregulated intermediate public transport sector, including shared autos and cabs, integrating them into the formal transport network. Additional surveys of boarding/alighting passenger count on buses, entry-exit counts of buses at terminals and interviews of paratransit operators will also be carried out.
The public are requested to cooperate with the survey team and provide their inputs. "This is not just about collecting data; it's about understanding the pulse of Chennai's commuters," said a CUMTA official. "We want to know how people travel, their challenges and what they expect from public transport.
" The ultimate goal is to create a hierarchical route network where different modes of transport complement each other rather than compete. For instance, a commuter should be able to seamlessly transition from a metro station to a bus or autorickshaw to reach the destination..
