The Hindu : Kerala / Kochi News : Study stresses need to improve public transport

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Thursday, Jun 23, 2011
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Kerala - Kochi

Study stresses need to improve public transport

Staff Reporter

KOCHI: While another Bus Day was observed in the city on Wednesday, the Centre for Public Policy Research, an active participant in the initiative, has come out with a study advocating the need to promote public transport.

The primary point of argument the study makes in support for public transport is the steep rise in fuel price over the last more than two decades. The fact that since 1989, petrol price has gone up by 770 per cent and diesel by more than 1,300 per cent reveals how big a hole is being made in the pockets of those who move around in their own vehicles.

Quoting the City Development Plan, the study said that for a population of 17.5 lakh made up of permanent residents, migrants, and floating population, the present public transport system was grossly inadequate. At present 840 buses were operating in the city — 600 private buses and 240 KSRTC buses.

The study further identified Menaka, Pallimukku, Padma Junction, High Court, Kaloor, and Palarivattom as the hotspots with maximum convergence of passengers throughout the day.

Based on this finding, the study called for route rationalisation in the operation of bus services. Further, new locations in the city like malls should also be taken into account in the rationalization process.

Meanwhile, the Bus Day was observed with Kaloor as the focal point on Wednesday. Unlike the previous editions, the day was observed in all locations covered by buses operating from Kaloor rather than in one specific location.

Private bus operators cooperated in the initiative by decorating the buses to mark the day. Toffees were also given to passengers. Discount coupons that were issued through selected petrol bunks in the city were another attraction this time, as passengers received discount in the bus fare.

Besides, the Circular Bus Owner's Association had agreed to let passengers travel any distance for Rs.5 during Bus Days. Bus Day is being observed on the third Wednesday of every month.

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