A CRITICAL LOOK AT BUS RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEMS IN INDIA: EARLY PROGRESS AND LESSONS

Abstract:

This paper will present a review of planning, implementation, and initial operations of bus rapid transit systems in India. Cities to be reviewed are the initial four cities which received funds under the JnNURM (Ahmedabad, Indore, Jaipur and Pune) and Delhi.

The paper will describe the most relevant characteristics of each system and will comment on planning, infrastructure design, operations, public outreach & user education and institutional arrangements. While the early efforts show improvement in the user experience, this preliminary survey indicates that there is a focus on the infrastructure component, while other elements of BRTS receive less attention. The pros and cons of this approach will be weighed and discussed. Demand estimation and operations planning could have been more elaborate, as well as outreach and user education activities. The possible risks and precautions that can be taken to avoid them will also be discussed. The paper will incorporate case studies based on site visits and interviews with stakeholders. It will provide general recommendations for planners, decision makers and the funding agency, in an effort to improve the state of the practice in India and other developing countries.