Hubballi: The Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) is planning to introduce a modern electric tram system along the 23-km BRTS corridor. DULT has invited a tender worth Rs 90 lakh for a techno-economic feasibility study. Implementation of the project will depend on govt approval based on the study.This announcement comes eight years after the launch of the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), connecting the commercial hub of Hubballi with the educational capital of Dharwad.Unlike Kolkata’s historic tramway, which was established during the British era, the Hubballi-Dharwad project focuses on modern, air-conditioned carriages that will run smoothly on the road without obstructing traffic flow.The Rs 900-crore BRTS project, under which 100 high-tech ‘Chigari’ buses currently operate across the twin cities, caters to approximately one lakh commuters daily. However, due to a shortage of buses, spare parts, and a lack of maintenance, commuters are dissatisfied with the service. Additionally, slow-moving vehicles in mixed-traffic lanes is an impediment for motorists.To enhance public transit efficiency, reduce long-term operational costs, and offer higher passenger capacity, authorities are evaluating tram models as seen in France, Germany, and Switzerland.According to officials, if the project goes ahead, Hubballi-Dharwad will become the first twin-city region in the country to have a modern tram system. A tram running on rails installed on the road can feature between two and five coaches.Savitri Kadi, the managing director of HD-BRTS, told TOI work will commence soon after the tender is finalised and the feasibility study is completed.Mahesh Kurahatti, a commuter from Hubballi, said: “If the tram transport system is implemented, more people can travel on the mass transit system with zero pollution.”
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