BRTS possible even on narrow roads- HS Swamy from CEPT University

Bangalore: Bangalore’s narrow roads can’t be an excuse for not having BRTS.Because, it is possible to have BRTS even on a road with a width as less as 18 metres. In core Bangalore areas, the majority of the roads are 14 to 24 metres wide. In Ahmedabad, BRTS covers many roads, which are 24 metres wide.

Prof H M Shivanand Swamy, an urban transport expert engaged in planning and design of Janmarg (BRTS) in Ahmedabad, said it is possible to have BRTS in Bangalore. One-way BRTS can be developed on roads with a width of 18 metres. It is up to the state government to decide whether to go in for BRTS.

Swamy, director of the Centre of Excellence in Urban Transport at CEPT University in Ahmedabad, says: “If need arises, the state government can think of an elevated BRTS.

People should also cooperate with the government for such a project. Bangalore urban planners should implement BRTS on roads already selected for it. People will extend support once they understand its benefits.”

The Janmarg BRTS in Ahmedbad is designed to cover 89 km. As of now, BRTS is operational on a stretch of 40 km. The first phase was commissioned in October 2009. The work on the second phase is on.

Many urban planners and transport experts have visited Ahmedabad to study BRTS.

Source:http://www.deccanherald.com/content/125796/brts-possible-even-narrow-roads.html