CHENNAI: The Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) in Chennai is expected to get a fresh lease of life through the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA)). Sources said CUMTA may focus on enhancing the visibility and image of the MRTS, besides enhancing the potential of the vacant built-space in rapid transit system (RTS) stations.The sources added that plans were also on to exploit the RTS for improving the rider ship and improving the revenue streams.Interestingly, a study, which was initiated by Goethe-Institut in collaboration with Anna University, found out that many RTS stations lacked basic infrastructure required for commuters and was underutilised.German Prof Gunter Nest and architect Tyco Cote of Habitat Forum Berlin had stated that inter-city railway stations in Chennai did not enjoy the status of traffic hubs or meeting points that could add to the character of urban life. At present, they are “just huge structures”. Interestingly, sources said CUMTA was also exploring the merits of introducing a common ticket for both rail travel and buses and most probably the National Common Mobility Card which was introduced by the Union government might be put to use. Sources said plans were also on to corporatise the mass rapid transport network, besides corporatisation of the suburban rail network.Plans were also on to operate bus services to match the timings of the suburban and RTS operations, especially at major rail terminals.
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