Integrate all transport systems

By Sanjeev Dyamannavar

Every Mass Public Transport should complement each other to bridge the last-mile-connectivity gap. It’s common sense to have higher patronage of Mass Last Transport modes and for this to happen, last-mile connectivity is very crucial.

BMTC provides extensive services across Bengaluru and even to nearby towns such as Nelamangala, Devanahalli, Hoskote, Doddaballapur, Bidadi, Magadi and Anekal. Bangalore Metro has commissioned Ph-1 & Ph-2, which is under implementation for the last one decade. The biggest challenge is that Mass Public Transport systems are planned as standalone systems, which is causing big barriers to last-mile connectivity.

There are several ways to bridge lastmile connectivity in Bangalore Public Transport, through non-motorised and motorised modes supported by technology. Last-mile connectivity should enable enhanced travel experience for commuters with close integration, and should bring down the overall journey time.

Each of the Mass Public Transport systems at each location need different last-mile connectivity and government agencies need to fund the infrastructure requirements.

Last-mile connectivity through motorised transport can be enabled by providing very good feeder services through BMTC, shared auto, two-wheeler rental, and bicycle and taxi sharing.

Each of these services has a cost involved and needs space to provide services from the Mass public Transport system such as Metro, city buses, KSRTC bus stands and railway stations.

If we have a very active planning authority like DULT or UMTA, these can be rolled out without conflict of interests between them. Metro station accessibility is critical for the public to use Metro and BMTC buses.

Many studies have been done through BMRCL, DULT and even by public consultation by private firms but most of them are on paper as implementation and maintenance require funding and these last-mile connectivity services can never generate profit and could pose a challenge over a long period.

(Sanjeev Dyamannavar is founding member for Praja RAAG)