No research on transportation system, says Ramchandriah

The Vijayawada Citizens Forum organised a session on ‘Urban Transportation’ at MB Vignana Vedika on Sunday. The session was rendered by professor C Ramachandriah of Center for Economics and Social Studies.

Speaking on the occasion, Ramchandriah opined that there is no research on the Vijayawada transportation system. “Metro rail is not essential to the city. There was a proposal for a corridor between Tirupati and Srikalahasthi. However, when there is already a train between them, what is the use of another metro line,” he questioned.

He later presented a demonstration of how population is rising vehicular movement and the requirements that will come up for the new capital. He said, “The master plan images given by the Singapore countries have been just graphical 3D images, which are plenty on the internet. The images also carried the note saying, ‘artistic impressions’ and real plans might vary.

This phrase is largely ignored.” Specific to the city’s public transport system he said, “In metro cities with migrants and heavy activity, metro rails are essential but, in the capital that is going to be built, it is not advisable. Besides, what developed countries practice in encouraging eco-friendly measures to walk around and move on bicycles, similar steps should be implemented in urban cities. It is advisable economically and is environment friendly, too.”

Former vice chancellor of Acharya Nagarjuna University (ANU), K Viyyanna Rao said, “Transportation has become a vital problem in the urban and upcoming cities. Even if the distance is less, we are required to start one hour before to reach the destination in private vehicles.

The government should set development as a key goal and work towards it with a better plan. Vijayawada is a hub for transportation and is a strategic location.” Secretary of Tax Payers Association M V Anjaneyulu and others also spoke on the occasion.