iBus Passengers Voice Opposition, Others Not So Sure

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s recent announcement that the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) corridor in the city would be dismantled has stirred up a heated debate in the city. While those using the Ibus at present abhor the idea of dismantling it, others who do not use the iBbus argue that removing it will smoothen the flow of traffic.

CM Yadav pointed out that the BRTS lane is empty while traffic is spilling onto both sides, causing frustration for drivers. He said that public is demanding a solution and we believe that widening the roads and adding flyovers is the way forward. 

A survey by Free Press revealed that 80 per cent of those who use the iBus are against the removal of the BRTS. They argue that as the city grows, it is crucial to strike a balance between improving traffic flow and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its transportation network. The remaining 20 per cent say that if flyovers would really help and would be better than the corridor, then there was no harm is dismantling.

VOICES

Prashant Sharma – A office going commuter 

Prashant Sharma – A office going commuter |

‘Until the metro is operational, removing BRTS will leave us without a fast alternative. iBus is quicker during peak hours and without it, commuting will become far more difficult.’

Anshika Sharma – A student 

Anshika Sharma – A student |

‘The BRTS is useful in some areas but it only covers certain routes. People in other parts of the city should use alternative routes if they’re facing congestion. Removing it entirely doesn’t seem fair

Yashika Ahuja – A student 

Yashika Ahuja – A student |

“The BRTS has been a reliable system for 13 years. Why are we removing it now? Indorians are used to it and there are other ways to improve traffic without dismantling the system.”

Vedant Bhatt, a student 

“iBus is only covering one fourth of the city and every way has an alternative way to reach why not choose that . If BRTS is removed, more people will be forced to drive. This will increase the number of cars on the road, worsening the traffic situation. We need alternatives, not more vehicles.”

Mithlesh Verma, a commuter

“If we remove BRTS and increase the number of cars, it will lead to more pollution. The environmental consequences of this decision need to be considered carefully.”

Shanshank Mittal, Advocate

“During emergency the BRTS has proved to be very helpful. Ambulances don’t have to wait for the signal to turn green or for the traffic to get resolved.”

The Indore BRTS or Ahilya Path is the BRTS for the city of Indore,  by AICTSL also called iBus(Intelligent Bus), became operational from 10 May 2013. The Indore BRTS project started in 2007 under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). It involves the participation of the Governments of India and Madhya Pradesh, and the World Bank.