Source: ET Bureau
Under the proposed plan, some incentives will also be offered for greening intracity goods transport through small trucks. Also, states will be aided to align bus and metro routes for improving viability of both systems.
“Metro and bus systems have separate authorities operating them. There are many instances of both buses and metro running on the same route without any of them being saturated,” a senior government official told ET. “This is an inefficiency which lowers revenue and financial viability. Emphasis is now on integrated planning and optimising routes.”
Public bus networks across the country are operated directly by the state governments and municipal bodies, or through government undertakings like the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC).
Metro networks are run by joint ventures between states and the Centre, such as the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). “Synergy now needs to be brought between these networks,” the official said.
Multiple entities competing for the same revenue is said to have kept away banks and bidders from participating in recent tenders for procuring electric buses.
Fixing and collection of fares continue to be with state government-controlled entities, thereby making bus suppliers dependent on states for the recovery of supply costs. “A payment security mechanism will soon be ready for improving the viability of operating bus services. Focus is also on improving non-fare revenue streams to keep the service affordable for commuters,” the official said, while emphasising that globally, including in developed nations, public transport systems continued to be supported by government agencies. “The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport and DTC model for public transport is the solution for improving the viability of buses. The state transport undertaking should make business models for them like real estate management agencies,” the official added.
Electric and clean fuel push
While the government is supporting deployment of electric buses through subsidy schemes, there are no concessions for commercial vehicles like large and small trucks. “Financial support could be offered for electrification of small commercial vehicles that largely move goods within cities. The technology is now established,” the official said, adding that sops will be announced soon. Viability of large electric trucks for moving goods over long interstate distances is also being assessed, he added.
“A new scheme for them will also be needed,” the official added.
