Delhi plans to set up Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority to boost last-mile connectivity
UMTA will conduct surveys and make a unified plan to integrate all transport modes, so that if a commuter steps out of the Metro, the person can easily access a bus or an auto-rickshaw for last-mile connectivity without any hassle, said an officer.
Setting up UMTA was one of the key poll promises of the BJP's manifesto in the run-up to the Delhi Assembly polls in February.
According to officials, the transport department is working on an Urban Transport Policy under which a unified body and a task force would be set up to coordinate with the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), and other transportation-managing authorities.
'The transport department had already made a proposal to establish UMTA in April and sent it to the minister for approval. The minister has accorded his approval. However, the Finance and Planning Department asked for more details and clearance in the Cabinet note. The department is currently working on it. Once it is done, the proposal will be sent for comments again, and after that, it will be forwarded for Cabinet approval,' a senior official.
'Currently, Delhi is becoming a transportation hub with metro, bus, rapid rail, and feeder services. For instance, there are areas where buses don't go. In these areas, people rely on mini buses, Gramin Sevas, or e-rickshaws. But there is no coordination between departments, due to which several routes are heavily congested, especially the bus terminals and railway stations,' said an officer.
During the previous government's tenure, a route rationalisation study was carried out in the Najafgarh area and outer Delhi parts to improve last-mile connectivity and to address transportation shortages.
Under the new project, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive study of the entire city, including routes, vehicles, and modes of transport currently operating. Accordingly, a new rationalised and segregated plan will be developed for implementation, said an officer.
Additionally, there are plans for the introduction of digital ticketing through the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) across all modes of transport, the officer stated.
'If all modes are streamlined, the commuting will improve and it will also push people towards using public transportation, which will eventually reduce congestion and curb pollution,' he added.
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