Ease of transit between metro and railway stations in Bengaluru: Searching for policy solutions

Abstract

Bengaluru is a fast-growing city in southern India, which has seen the fastest growth in the decadal population between the census periods of 2001 and 2011. This growth in population brings with it innumerable challenges for urban planners of the city. Along with urban sanitation, Bengaluru’s public transport systems face the challenge of accommodating every addition to the population, which is aspiring for a better life. The opportunities that a well – connected city brings to city dwellers as well as to the investors, who are looking to take a bet on the growth story of India, are game-changing. Indian Railways is a mass mover of passengers and freight across the length and breadth of the country. Bengaluru is a city that is well – connected with most major cities in India through trains operated by Indian Railways. Metro railway networks like Namma Metro in Bengaluru offer an efficient, high capacity mobility solution to urban dwellers who can reach their desired stations punctually and safely. Other modes of public transport in Bengaluru include buses operated by BMTC, para-transit solutions like autorickshaws, taxis. This policy paper aims to develop policy solutions to the problem of poor transit between Namma Metro and major Indian Railway stations in Bengaluru. Other modes of public transport have not been included in the study because the carrying capacities of the different modes are low compared to the Metro. The study is based on the available literature, reports by various agencies including NITI Aayog, discussion with officials, a survey, and case studies from other urban centers that have been able to resolve the broader issue of better integration of public transport. The study found a severe lack of coordination between the state and the center. The absence of specific and binding directions in the form of law seems to be another issue. The recommendations to tackle these issues include short- and long-term perspectives with which planners could approach the problem. The population of Bengaluru is expected to double (from 2011 figures) by 2031. Bengaluru has already been named as the most congested city in the world. A successful experiment of easing transit, as envisioned in this study will go a long way in inspiring planners to tackle other similar problems related to the integration of multi-modal transportation, armed with this experience.