Officials discuss feasibility of London's transport model for Chennai

In a recently held meeting in Chennai, officials running Transport for London along with the representatives of World Bank participated.

An official, who participated in the meeting, said that London has a well-organised public transport system and works towards attaining 80 per cent non-motorised transport before 2041. “All public transport facilities, such as buses, trains, water transport and bicycles, are interlinked under Transport for London (TfL). TfL also maintains public roads in London,” the official added.

Explaining the purpose of the meeting, he said that the participants had deliberated the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with London so that the knowledge sharing would become easier. TfL fixes fares for all public transportation. “If the memorandum of understanding id signed, we have to boost the transport infrastructure in the city. In that case, the World Bank is expected to fund the projects.”

Meanwhile, the State government has decided to implement Bus Rapid Transport System and started preparation of detailed project reports. A series of public consultation meetings are being held in the city to gather stakeholders’ suggestion.

The meeting was held at a time when the Corporation is boosting cycle sharing and searching land to construct multi-level car parking facilities at around 100 locations. The civic body also has been preparing the first master plan for non-motorised transport for the city. On the other hand, the Metrorail has completed a detailed project report for phase-2 lines on three corridors.

Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) is the nodal agency for the CUMTA, while Chennai Corporation, MTC, Metro Rail and others are its members. CUMTA Act was notified in January 2019.