Mumbai, Oct. 30 -- Hyderabad is examining the introduction of a Personal Rapid Transit System (PRTS) to strengthen last-mile connectivity for Metro commuters and reduce traffic congestion, Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMRL) Managing Director Sarfaraz Ahmed said on Tuesday.
A techno-economic feasibility study has been completed to assess the system under the public-private partnership model. The initiative was launched following directions from Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to identify innovative and sustainable solutions for connectivity around Metro stations and other high-density activity centres.
Ahmed outlined the project at a stakeholder workshop in Hyderabad, where feedback and suggestions were sought on the feasibility study. The workshop was jointly organised by HMRL and LEA Associates South Asia, the consultancy agency appointed for the project.
The proposed PRTS is intended to provide a reliable, comfortable, environment-friendly and technology-driven transport option for passengers travelling beyond the Metro network. It is also expected to support higher Metro ridership by making station access and onward travel more convenient.
According to the project details presented at the workshop, the system would help reduce dependence on private vehicles and intermediate public transport while easing pressure on roads in rapidly growing urban areas. It is designed to enable Metro passengers to reach their final destinations more seamlessly after completing their rail journeys.
Feedback is being collected from government departments and private sector stakeholders as officials work on the next steps for the project. NVS Reddy, adviser to the Telangana government on urban transport and Metro matters, explained the potential benefits and highlighted the proposed link between Metro stations and commuters' destinations. The feasibility assessment and stakeholder responses will inform further decisions on advancing the system.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.