Chennai: CUMTA Sets Sights On MRTS Takeover, To Pave Way For Unified Public Transport

The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) is taking steps toward the integration of its public transport systems.

CUMTA will hire a consultant to assess the feasibility of taking over the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) and operating services utilising current rolling stock, stated CUMTA special officer I Jayakumar.

This ambitious move is part of CUMTA's vision to become the nodal agency for coordinating all public transport in Chennai, providing commuters with a seamless and efficient travel experience.

To achieve this, the consultant appointed by CUMTA will undertake a comprehensive review, considering various aspects of the MRTS takeover.

Following the submission of the business plan in December, a revised memorandum of understanding will be drafted.

The key elements of the study include:

Asset Review: The consultant will revisit the asset register, taking into account changes in the state of assets over the past five years. This will provide critical insights into the condition and readiness of the MRTS infrastructure for integration.

Recommendations Update: The earlier study report's recommendations regarding asset retention and disposal will be updated based on discussions with Southern Railway, the current operator of the MRTS. This will help shape the future direction of MRTS operations.

Business Plan: The consultant will produce a comprehensive business plan outlining the strategies and operational framework for CUMTA's takeover of MRTS services. This plan is expected to be submitted by December.

The original 2017 report, prepared by a consultant appointed by the state government through (Chennai Metro Rail Limited), identified various technical and operational challenges associated with the MRTS takeover.

However, it excluded rolling stock assets, as they were slated for replacement. The report also addressed regulatory and legal issues related to the takeover, reports The New Indian Express.

Significantly, CUMTA's role evolved in 2019 with the notification of rules governing its operations. It is now positioned as the central agency responsible for coordinating all public transport in Chennai, providing a more holistic approach to transit integration.

Under the revised plan, consultants will focus on the dedicated section of the MRTS, spanning from Chintadripet to Velachery. The study will also assess the impact of the upcoming extension to St Thomas Mount, currently under construction. If all goes according to plan, the merger could commence by the end of the next financial year in 2024-25.

This marks a significant step forward in the city's journey toward a more integrated and sustainable urban transport network.