KOCHI:
“Cars have become the preferred mode of transport for the common man. The increasing number of private vehicles on city roads has led to severe traffic and pollution challenges in Kochi,” said Soumini Jain, Mayor of Kochi.
“Since Kochi is an unplanned city, the transportation sector faces multiple challenges. More vehicles on road lead to more pollution, excessive use of fuel and traffic congestion. The city lacks last mile connectivity for all modes of transport. These issues cannot be solved by building more roads,” she added.
The mayor was speaking at the preliminary meeting intended to kickstart the ‘Public Transport Day’ campaign held at the Government Guest House here on Monday. The year long campaign initiated by the Centre for Public Policy Research, a Kochi-based think tank, aims to promote the use of public transport in the city.
“Major environmental challenges threaten Kochi, as the city lies below the sea level. Promoting the use of public transport in the city hence becomes a high priority matter,” said Hibi Eden MLA.
“Though everybody is familiar with the idea of public transport, there is an immediate need for a cultural transition. Misaligned cables in junctions and on walkways cause many accidents. Last mile connectivity in our city is also limited,” he added.
Representatives from various civil society groups, NGOs, government departments and trade organisations participated and raised issues related to public transport in Kochi. They also shared their experiences of using public transport in the city. Stressing on the challenges faced in travelling through the city, they expressed their consent to cooperate with the initiative.
Following the discussion, a core committee involving the representatives of various associations was formed to work out the future plans. The core committee will meet every month to take the campaign forward. The meeting also decided to celebrate ‘Public Transport Day’ every month for a year beginning January 2018.
