Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has put forth a visionary proposal to revolutionise public transport in Bengaluru, a city grappling with severe traffic congestion and pollution. In an exclusive interview, Gadkari outlined an ambitious agenda focusing on sustainable, electric mass transit systems, including innovative aerial pod taxis and flash-charging electric buses. These initiatives aim not only to alleviate the city’s notorious traffic woes but also to transition towards more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
At the heart of Gadkari’s vision is the concept of aerial pod taxis, described as driverless electric pods operating on elevated tracks. These pods, akin to double-decker buses, are designed to carry up to 135 passengers and represent a futuristic approach to urban mobility. “We are receiving multiple proposals for developing such technology, with a total of 360 submissions received,” Gadkari noted. He highlighted that research from international firms is already underway, and several pilot projects are poised to launch in metropolitan areas such as Delhi and Bengaluru. This multi-pronged approach underscores a broader commitment to enhancing public transport while addressing pressing environmental concerns.
During the discourse, Gadkari emphasised the pressing need for an overhaul in public transport priorities within Indian society. He remarked, “Indian society is not giving priority to public transport. They want comfort.” This perspective reflects a cultural shift, where luxury transportation options are gaining favour over traditional public transit methods. The minister reiterated that pollution issues, driven largely by fossil fuel imports costing the country Rs 22 lakh crores, necessitated a pivot towards cleaner alternatives.
In conjunction with aerial transportation, Gadkari has championed the introduction of flash-charging electric buses. These buses employ a system that charges the vehicle automatically at designated stops, allowing for quick intervals of service. “The flash-charging system, which comes from leading firms like Hitachi and Siemens, can charge the bus in just half a minute, allowing it to run for approximately 40 kilometres,” he explained. Additionally, facilities akin to those found on airlines are proposed, with amenities such as tea and coffee service for passengers, reflected in a broader trend of enhancing the passenger experience.
Gadkari’s proposals extend to the intersection of traditional and modern transport solutions. He proposed the implementation of a skybus system for Bengaluru, which would run along elevated tracks to reduce road congestion. This innovative transit mode could seat up to 200 passengers, functioning similarly to a metro system but positioned above ground. Furthermore, he has planned multi-layered flyovers and trolley buses to optimise urban transport infrastructure within the city, calling for feasibility studies to evaluate these initiatives.
Despite the promising outlook, the challenge remains significant. Bengaluru’s rapid urbanisation and status as an IT hub intensify the pressure on its infrastructure. Acknowledging this, Gadkari outlined the need for immediate and innovative solutions to confront the city’s traffic crises head-on.
In addition to this, similar proposals have emerged for Pune, suggesting that the concept of ‘flying buses’ could be a model for alleviating congestion in multiple metropolitan areas.
As discussions surrounding these ambitious transit projects unfold, it becomes crucial to evaluate their economic viability, safety, and long-term sustainability. Gadkari’s proactive measures signal a pivotal shift in India’s approach to public transport, prioritising not just efficiency and comfort but also a sustainable future for its urban landscapes.
The response from stakeholders, including state officials and transport experts, will be vital as the nation embarks on this quest for revolutionary transport solutions.
Reference Map
- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s proposals for Bengaluru and Pune.
- Aerial pod taxis and electric bus systems discussed for urban transport.
- Economic implications and priorities surrounding public transport in Indian society.
- Feasibility studies planned for the proposed skybus and trolley bus systems.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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