To improve inter-connectivity with Metro corridors, MMRDA studies ‘multi-modal integration plan’

The Mumbai Metro Regional Development Authority (MMRDA) has begun a study for seamless transfer from other modes of transport to metro stations of two proposed metro corridor. The study is being conducted at two metro corridors of Dahisar east to DN Nagar 2A corridor and Andheri east to Dahisar east 7 corridor which would ensure positioning of auto stand, bus stand, private parking at the stations and improve accessibility without hampering the existing traffic flowing below the metro station.

This study which is termed as ‘Multi modal integration planning’ is being conducted by appointing two consultants which include an Italy based company named D’appolonia and Urban Mass Transit Company Limited. The two consultants began the study in February 2018 and it would continue for a period of nine months. “The study includes assessing several modes of transport including bus, auto, private car and suburban stations to ensure a convenient mode of transport for a commuter to reach a particular metro station,” said an MMRDA official.

The study has been divided into two packages as there are a total number of 30 metro stations on both the corridors. In February, the consultants began the study on 15 metro stations which has been taken into consideration in the first package.

“The study demands the need to gather inputs for station accessibility plan. A total of 500 meters radius would be taken into consideration to understand the accessibility towards a particular metro station,” added the official.

The second aspect in the study is to gather inputs for feeder network plan. A total of 1.5km radius would be taken into consideration to study this aspect.“The study will be conducted on accessibility options for the commuters or riders to commute to and fro from the metro stations,” said an MMRDA official.

The number of commuters coming from different locality like high density and slum pocket areas will also be taken into consideration under this study.Based on the results of the study, a mode of transport will be provided at a particular metro station.For example, a normal auto stand can be provided to commuters at DN Nagar station whereas, a share auto can be provided to commuters at Pathanwadi station.

“The consultants will also study on the need for affordable mode of transport like mini buses for a person coming from area of Dharavi,” added an MMRDA official. The consultants is also surveying the area on aesthetically designing the area under a particular metro station area. The need for street furniture amenities like street lights, plantations and fountains to beautify the place will be covered under this study.

“The area below the metro stations needs to be illuminated. Usually there are only piers or columns below a metro station, which does not look attractive to commuters. Items like drop boxes and ATMS will be provided if there is a residential area nearby a metro station,” added an MMRDA official. The officials said that at least 40 percent construction work has been completed on both the corridors and the work is set to be completed by October 2019.