In response to recent incidents involving Metro passengers accidentally falling or jumping onto the tracks, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has announced plans to install platform screen doors (PSDs) at two operational stations: Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Interchange at Majestic and Sir M. Visvesvaraya (MV) Station at Central College. These stations were chosen due to their high foot traffic, with the Majestic Interchange serving over 2.7 lakh passengers daily, including those transferring trains.
According to a written response from BMRCL to Bangalore South MP Tejasvi Surya, the initiative marks the first phase of retrofitting operational stations with PSDs. The installation process will be carefully planned and executed, as retrofitting existing infrastructure is both time-consuming and poses safety challenges. BMRCL intends to collaborate with experienced firms that have a proven track record in PSD installation.
Furthermore, for future Metro projects involving unmanned trains, BMRCL is actively seeking funding provisions, including for the airport line.
On the topic of last-mile connectivity, BMRCL reported that the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) currently operates 178 buses from 38 stations on 48 routes, completing 2,393 trips daily. Plans are also in place to approach BMTC to provide corporate shuttle services to enhance connectivity.
Addressing concerns about inadequate parking facilities, BMRCL indicated that approximately 1.1 lakh sqm of parking space is currently available across 53 Metro stations, accommodating 14,675 two-wheelers and 2,654 cars. In response to suggestions for promoting the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), which allows for seamless payment across various transport modes, BMRCL stated that NCMCs are already available at Metro stations. Further integration with BMTC is in progress to enhance the card’s utility.
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