CUMTA Initiates Study to Bridge Last-Mile Connectivity Gaps

Rapid Summary

• Last-mile connectivity in Chennai has been a persistent challenge for public transport users.
• Previous efforts involving mini-buses by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) failed due to poor revenue generation, leading to service reductions.
• The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) proposed reorganizing bus routes, targeting densely populated areas, and integrating services with Metro and suburban trains.
• CUMTA’s bus advancement study analyzed 664 bus routes and conducted 13 types of surveys across MTC stops, suburban train stations, MRTS stations, and bus terminals.
• The study mapped primary corridors based on zone-wise data of Chennai Metropolitan Area to assess demand zones and strategize phased route adjustments to reduce redundancy and improve coverage.
• A meeting chaired by MTC Managing Director was held to review existing operations; private buses were noted for successfully bridging gaps in extended city areas but require further promotion.
• Commuters like M. Barath highlighted gaps in last-mile connectivity despite partial integration between Metro and suburban trains at certain stations.
• A proposal from MTC under the gross cost contract model will soon be submitted to the State government for improving last-mile connectivity.

Indian Opinion Analysis

CUMTA’s initiative highlights the need for an integrated approach toward optimizing public transport systems within urban areas such as Chennai.Identifying demand corridors via extensive surveys reflects a data-driven strategy that could potentially address inefficiencies in current operations. Enhancing last-mile connectivity is crucial as it directly influences commuter convenience.The reliance on private buses in extended regions underscores their role as supplemental solutions but points toward inadequate coverage by publicly managed systems. If successfully implemented through phased rearrangement of routes under the proposed gross cost contract model, this plan could alleviate congestion while expanding access-especially pertinent given Chennai’s demographic density.

Efforts like these are foundational for creating sustainable urban transport systems that accommodate growing populations while maintaining affordability. however, timely approval from authorities will be crucial for implementation without stagnation or delays.

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