In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance the overall experience for residents and tourists alike, the UT Administration of Chandigarh has recently greenlit the introduction of a shuttle bus service to connect various tourist destinations across the city. The decision, made during a meeting of the Chandigarh City Bus Service Society (CCBSS) under the leadership of UT adviser-cum-home secretary Nitin Yadav, marks a strategic move towards a more sustainable and visitor-friendly transit system.
Acknowledging the need for improved parking facilities near popular tourist spots, the Architecture Department has been tasked with crafting a comprehensive plan for a revamped parking system. This plan will be executed in consultation with the Engineering Department and traffic police, ensuring efficient use of designated spaces near attractions like Sukhna Lake, Bird Park, Rock Garden, and the High Court. The Engineering Department will play a pivotal role in marking parking spaces and erecting informative signboards for the convenience of visitors.
To kickstart the shuttle bus service, Chandigarh Transport Undertaking buses will operate at a frequency of five minutes. The minimal fare for a round trip has been set at Rs 10, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for both residents and tourists. The service will initially run on weekends and holidays as part of a trial period, during which the CCBSS will actively seek public feedback to refine and optimize the system.
IAS Nitin Yadav, in his role as UT adviser-cum-home secretary, expressed optimism about the positive impact these initiatives will have on Chandigarh’s residents. He stated, “The implementation of these modern and passenger-friendly shelters will enhance the commuting experience for residents of Chandigarh.”
Looking towards a more sustainable future, the governing body of CCBSS has sent a proposal to the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs for the hiring of 100 electric buses to replace traditional diesel buses, aligning with broader environmental goals.
Additionally, the society has resolved to implement Delhi-pattern bus queue shelters across the city. These shelters are designed with a focus on passenger convenience, safety, and information accessibility. Features include CCTV cameras for enhanced security, static route maps, mobile charging points, dustbins for cleanliness, solar panels for sustainability, architecturally designed artifacts for aesthetic appeal, real-time bus information through PIS boards, SOS contact numbers for emergencies, and disabled-friendly features for enhanced accessibility. Advertisement boards will also be installed to promote government schemes, fostering a sense of community engagement.
Concluding this transformative journey, Chandigarh’s steps towards sustainable and efficient transit solutions, championed by Nitin Yadav, not only signify a positive change for residents and tourists but also position the city as a pioneer in embracing eco-friendly and passenger-centric transportation systems.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kamlesh Bhattacharya
Kamlesh Bhattacharya is a senior correspondent who covers general news on Chandigarh city. He also writes on the tourism sector, focusing on the northern region. He is fond of reading and cricket.
