West Bengal Advances Modernisation in Transport Sector

Kolkata, June 25 (PTI): West Bengal is gearing up for a modernisation drive in its transportation sector, with Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty poised to engage in discussions with private bus owners' associations in early July. This initiative aims to enhance commuter experiences across the region's transport landscape.

Key to these enhancements is the deployment of the 'Yatri Sathi' app, designed to provide real-time updates on bus arrivals at designated stops. This initiative, already on trial in select state transport routes around the city, aims for comprehensive integration across all state-run buses by year's end.

Minister Chakraborty highlighted existing challenges in aligning private bus operators with this vision. Integral to the roll-out is equipping drivers with smartphones linked to the app, a financial endeavor bus unions argue could strain their resources, given the starting price of a capable device is estimated at Rs 8,000.

In addressing this issue, the Minister acknowledged economic constraints faced by operators, proposing that the transport department might absorb some costs with third-party assistance. Still, he stressed the necessity of updating Kolkata's transport framework for its residents and neighboring metropolitan areas.

Another cornerstone of this modernization is the installation of digital display boards at bus shelters. This is part of a broader goal to reduce passenger wait times and optimize the transport network's efficiency.

In tandem with technological advances, efforts to reduce road accidents include urging bus operators to equip vehicles with mirrors addressing cabin blind spots.

The app's deployment is actively expanding, having already been tested along critical corridors, including South Kolkata and key areas adjacent to the airport and Sector V Salt Lake and New Town.

Pradip Narayan Bose, a spokesperson for the West Bengal Private Bus and Minibus Owners Association, revealed that state authorities have requested the adoption of the 'Where is my bus' feature in select vehicles by July 25, 2023. Concurrently, bus owners have tabled several proposals, such as establishing Rs 10 as a baseline fare, integrating state and private buses under a unified permit, and enhancing roadway conditions.

Should these considerations not be met, Bose cautioned that many private buses might cease operations due to untenable business conditions, a potential outcome that underscores the necessity of mutual agreements between the state and operators.