Chandigarh Transport Advisory Council Discusses Key Issues, Future Mobility Plans under the Chairmanship of Manish Tiwari, MP, Chandigarh

The Voice of Chandigarh: The Administrator Advisory Council on Transport, chaired by Hon’ble Member of Parliament Manish Tiwari, held a crucial meeting to address pressing issues related to the city’s transport infrastructure, safety, and future mobility strategies. The meeting saw active participation from senior officials, including the Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic), Joint Secretary-cum-Director of Transport, and representatives from the Municipal Corporation and State Transport Authority.

Here are the key takeaways from the meeting:

1. Auto Rickshaw Safety and Registration

• The Council discussed the ongoing safety issues surrounding auto-rickshaws, with 5000 vehicles registered in Punjab and Haryana. Measures for improving safety standards in these vehicles are being explored.

2. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure

• A significant concern raised by Sh. Manish Tiwari was the poor state of EV charging stations in Chandigarh, many of which are either non-functional or have been vandalized. He emphasized the urgent need for a sustainable and cost-efficient charging infrastructure to support the city’s green transition.

3. Congestion Tax Proposal Rejected

• The proposed congestion tax on vehicles entering Chandigarh from outside was discussed but ultimately rejected. The Chairperson expressed that such a tax, effective in cities like London, would not be suitable for Chandigarh’s context.

4. Dual Taxation and Passenger-Goods Tax

• The Council was informed that a proposal to repeal the passenger-good tax has been sent to the Government of India due to concerns about dual taxation—both motor vehicle tax and GST. A response from the Government is awaited, and no further action will be taken until then.

5. Pilot Paid Parking Project

• To address growing parking issues in residential areas, Sector 35 has been chosen as a pilot project for implementing a paid parking policy. The Chief Architect also suggested modifications to the Master Plan 2030 to cater to the city’s future parking needs.

6. Building By-Laws and Stilt Parking

• The need to amend the city’s building by-laws to allow stilt parking was raised. A report detailing these amendments will be submitted within 45 days.

7. Public Transport Grid System

• Sh. Tiwari directed a review of the existing grid system for public transport, with a focus on assessing its feasibility for a wider implementation across Chandigarh. A survey will be conducted to explore this possibility.

8. Transport Infrastructure Re-Planning

• The Chandigarh Transportation Association highlighted the need for comprehensive re-planning of transport infrastructure to meet future demands. A site visit with relevant authorities will be arranged to evaluate potential improvements.

9. Metro Rail System for Tricity Region

• The Council discussed plans for a regional metro rail transit system (MRTS) connecting Chandigarh, Mohali, New Chandigarh, and Panchkula. A comparison of metro systems in cities like Ahmedabad, Kochi, Jaipur, and Noida will be undertaken. The Chairperson urged the Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) to request Government of India funding for the proposed Four City Metro project.

10. Traffic Congestion in Industrial Areas

• The issue of traffic congestion in the industrial area (between Plot Nos. 722-788) was raised. Commercial vehicles struggle due to dead-end streets, and the Railway Department has been approached to explore a solution.

Action Plans & Timelines

• Stilt Parking Report: To be submitted within 45 days.
• Public Transport Grid Survey: To begin immediately.
• Metro Rail Feasibility: UMTA to pursue a grant-based funding proposal with the Government of India.
• Parking Policy Implementation: Sector 35 will serve as a test zone for the paid parking policy.

The meeting underscored the Administration’s commitment to transforming Chandigarh’s transport infrastructure, with a focus on sustainability, future mobility, and addressing immediate issues like parking and traffic congestion. The decisions made today are set to shape the city’s transport landscape for years to come.