Critical Appraisal of Parameters for Successful Implementation of BRTS in India

Abstract

Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) is establishing itself as a new and sustainable solution to mass transit against the conventional transit systems in many cities across the globe as well as in India. Different BRTSs have adopted various case-specific solutions to make the system contextual to the place, user-friendly, strategic, technologically advanced, and ecologically sustainable. In most cases, the most favoured solution is governed by aspects related to available infrastructure, budgetary allocations, demand and behavioral patterns of passengers, and areas of focus. The paper makes a critical appraisal of various parameters contributing to the implementation of BRTS services across the world and applicability of the same in India. It also deals with how the application of a new transportation system affects the surrounding area and with the resulting various social and physical impacts. As a conclusion, this paper establishes that successful BRTS must combine proper station design, track design, maintained vehicles and running ways with backup infrastructure, educated and updated drivers and workforce, public cautiousness, and system-backed information technology. Further, it concludes that the institutional framework needs revamping in Indian scenario for successful implementation of BRTS projects.