CTU exploring routes based on Mudrika model in New Delhi

In December last year, a survey conducted by EMBARQ, a centre for sustainable transport, was submitted to the transport department officials. The survey revealed that the frequency of buses on the existing routes varies from a minimum of 20 minutes to over an hour on certain routes.

As many as 38 new routes based on loops (circular routes) were then identified and designed in a manner to ensure that a stretch will not be exceeding more than 19 k in most cases, and also be completed within a span of an hour.

After scrutinising the proposal, it was brought to notice that Madhya Marg and the periphery areas, which witness the maximum traffic rush, were being ignored.

“Thus, a concept to introduce routes based on a model connecting the outer areas is being discussed. A final decision on the routes will be decided by mid-February and implemented on a trial basis. After receiving feedback from the public, the routes will be accordingly finalised if needed,” Bhawna Garg, Transport Secretary, stated.

According to an official in the transport department, Mohali, Maloya, Dadu Majra, airport, railway station, Manimajra and the Capitol Complex are some of the locations where the Mudrika route could be introduced.

The idea is also being countered as the model may not be as effective in the city due to low commuter base as compared to New Delhi.

At present, there are 69 routes on which more then 300 buses ply in the Tricity. Certain existing routes were found to be overlapping and causing unnecessary delay to passengers. Thus, various route structures are being looked at to introduce an efficient transport model.