Gurgaon: The Gurugram Metropolitan Rail Limited (GMRL) is planning to develop the upcoming Sector 45 metro station as a pilot project for multi-modal integration. This initiative aims to create seamless connectivity between metro services, buses, e-rickshaws, app-based taxis, pedestrians, and other modes of transport.
Pilot Project for Seamless Connectivity
Officials have held preliminary talks to integrate the upcoming metro corridor with the Gurugaman bus service, with the goal of boosting last-mile connectivity and commuter convenience. A senior official confirmed that Sector 45 station has been identified as the first site for this integration model before it is replicated at other stations.
“We are planning Sector 45 as a pilot for multi-modal integration. The idea is to create infrastructure where buses, e-rickshaws, app-based taxi services, pedestrians, and even public bike-sharing systems can seamlessly connect with the metro station. Right now, discussions are focused on physical integration and infrastructure planning,” the official said.
Physical Infrastructure Planning
Officials stated that the planning exercise involves identifying designated areas for buses, pick-up and drop-off zones, pedestrian pathways, e-rickshaw stands, and bicycle parking. This will enable commuters to switch between different modes of transport with minimal inconvenience.
“Multi-modal integration essentially means enabling commuters to complete their journey using multiple transport systems in a smooth and coordinated manner. Someone travelling from home to office may walk to a station, take a metro, and then use a bus or e-rickshaw for the last stretch,” the official added.
Information and Ticketing Integration
Apart from physical infrastructure, agencies have also discussed information sharing, operational coordination, and integration of ticketing systems between metro and bus services. Officials said discussions included the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), which would allow commuters to use a single card across different public transport systems, including metro and buses.
“We are also looking at operational and information integration. Passengers should be able to access details about bus routes and metro timings easily. Eventually, commuters should be able to use a common mobility card across systems,” the official said.
Stakeholder Consultations
The meeting was attended by officials from the Gurugram Metropolitan City Bus Limited (GMCBL), GMRL, and technical consultants associated with the metro project. Further consultations with different stakeholders are expected before the plan is finalised, the official said.
