In a move to maximize revenue, increase connectivity and enhance bonding with the public, the Kerala Urban Road Transportation Corporation (KURTC) is trying to ensure last mile connectivity for commuters through an integrated public transport system.
As part of the move, special bus services connecting railway stations, airports and public institutions would be launched by the KURTC. The department feels the initiative will help ensure seamless transit of passengers. First phase of the initiative has already begun in Kochi.
“A new a/c low floor bus started service from Ernakulam south railway station last week. This bus is exclusively operating for commuters of Jan Shatabdi express. We had conducted a study on the nature of passengers of Jan Shatabdi,” a senior official with KURTC said. “It was found that the destinations of many passengers are Jetty, Menaka, Kacherippady areas. Others destinations are Edappally, Aluva and Angamaly. Though the scheduled arrival of Jan Shatabdi is around 9.45 am, the bus would start from Ernakulam junction railway station only after its arrival. “Earlier, the passengers had to walk a lot in order to board a bus plying in the route,” the official said. The officials of the KURTC initiated the service after holding discussions with the southern railways.
