India Behind The Lens (News Centre)

The lifeline of Ahamedabad, the BRTS has celebrated its second anniversary. The Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), is run by Ahmedabad Janmarg Limited (AJL) set up by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC).  The service which began with just a 12.5 km stretch in 2009, is spread over 45 km today benefiting around 1.4 lakh passengers daily. BRTS, which started with a fleet of 12 buses has 75 buses today and the figures will increase to 150-200 buses by next year. Presently, 1.4 lakh passengers travel on BRTS bus daily and the income generated is Rs8.25 lakh.

Municipal commissioner Guruprasad Mohapatra said, "The implementation of smart card will be one of the major changes for the passenger's convenience. The IT enabled card will be like a prepaid card used by the commuter and the money will be deducted with every travel. Also, prepaid tokens will be introduced for passengers." Mohapatra also spoke on the recent survey on BRTS passengers. The survey suggests that BRTS passengers are subject to lesser vehicular pollution as compared to any other mode of transport. On being asked why they chose BRTS over other modes of transport, passengers immediately named the frequency of the buses and quality service provided by AJL.

Deputy municipal commissioner for BRTS Utpal Pedia has said that in two months smart cards will be introduced so that passengers can enjoy ticketless travel. He added that the aim is to construct new routes and bring it to 95 km in total by next year. AJL is considering starting articulated buses for the convenience of passengers.