The Hindu 27.09.2009
BRTS to be sanctioned for nine more cities
Staff Reporter
NEW DELHI: Along with encouraging widespread use of buses it is also important to factor in the needs of cyclists and pedestrians who are often the worst victims of the urban transport systems, said Union Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy here over the weekend.
Describing the Delhi Metro railway as a runaway success, Mr. Reddy said metro train services would be encouraged while focusing on development of the bus transport system. He was speaking at the First Habitat Summit organised to brainstorm ideas on “Alternative urban futures for India”.
“Excise duty on buses should be zero per cent,” he added.
Referring to the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, Mr. Reddy admitted that the money sanctioned for the mission was “chicken-feed” and that the World Bank had been approached for funds.
Cheaper option
Praising the much talked about Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) in the Capital, Mr. Reddy said: “We are sanctioning BRTS in nine other cities. While the Delhi BRTS drew on already existing roads, fresh roads will be made for BRTS in other cities. BRTS is eight times cheaper than the metro train service.”
Also approving of the Delhi BRTS, State Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta said: “The BRTS will be further expanded in the Capital by 292 km over the next eight years. We need systems of transport that are sensitive to the needs of women, children, the disabled and the elderly. The recent introduction of low-floor buses in the Capital is a measure in that direction.”
Single authority
Emphasising the need to make the Capital a place where people could walk, Mr. Mehta said: “Our planning is oriented towards speeding up traffic and not towards non-motorised transport. This needs to be changed. It is also important to create a single transit authority that would bring all implementation agencies on a level playing field.”
