India has sought help from the United Kingdom to improve upon the Urban Transport Sector through cooperation in policy planning, technology transfer and institutional organisation. Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari is in London to discuss the modalities and lay the roadmap for the MoU between Indian and UK authorities and all stakeholders.
Gadkari met Secretary of State for Transport in the Government of UK in London Chris Graylin to facilitate cooperation in the transport sector and enable the sharing of expertise and latest technology to promote efficient mobility solutions.
“It is also expected to usher in policy reforms that can transform the transport sector through improved customer service/data analysis and better use of IT systems. The MOU will also help in promoting digital transactions and induction of high capacity diesel/electric vehicles in India. This MoU will also establish the terms on which such assistance can be provided,” said a senior Road Transport Ministry official.
Gadkari during his last visit to London in May this year, had infact finalised bilateral cooperation arrangements between Transport for London (TFL) and Ministry of Road Transport & Highways to cover a wide range of transport mobility solutions and associated activities in urban environment.
The TFL provides world class services that keep the British capital better equipped with public transport. The TFL virtually coordinates all the London transport, including London metro, the bus network, Dockland Light Rail, water transport and cable car.
The decision was taken on a wide range of transport mobility solutions and associated activities in urban environments. A presentation was also shared with Gadkari at TFL on strategy and policy reforms, customer experience and data analysis in respect of London buses and other integrated modes of public transport in Greater London area.
Under the proposed MoU, the TFL will share with India its expertise on the mobility and efficiency of transport system and methodologies to facilitate the planning and delivery of mobility solutions including ticketing, passenger information, major project financing, infrastructure maintenance strategies and behavioural change and public transport promotion.
“Signing of the MoU will be done through diplomatic channels shortly. Possibilities of further cooperation on electric buses, bus innovation and capacity augmentation and water transport were also explored during his interaction with the TFL authorities,” added the official.
Gadkari is also scheduled to address at International Maritime Organisation and Indian business leaders in UK, urging them to cooperate in the Namami Gange project of the Government.