Chennai's Comprehensive Mobility Plan: A New Era for Public Transport

Introduction of the Comprehensive Mobility Plan

Chennai, Sep 20: Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is set to launch a significant 25-year Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) for the Chennai Metropolitan Area next week. This initiative will also introduce a unified QR-code-based ticketing system that aims to streamline all major public transport modes in the city.

These announcements will take place during the second governing board meeting of the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) at the State Secretariat, as per an official statement.

The CMP, which spans 5,904 sq km, outlines a vision for 2048, with the goal of establishing an 'integrated, seamless, safe, and sustainable transport ecosystem' for Chennai.

The plan focuses on increasing public transport usage, ensuring affordable fares, fully integrating bus, metro, and para-transit services, and minimizing emissions by promoting non-motorized and eco-friendly transport options.

In conjunction with this long-term strategy, CM Stalin will also unveil the Chennai One Mobility App, which will be accessible on both iOS and Android devices.

This app will enable commuters to plan their journeys, track services in real-time, and purchase digital tickets via UPI or card payments.

A standout feature, 'One City, One Ticket', will allow passengers to transition between buses, metro trains, and suburban rail using a single QR code, marking a first for any Indian city.

Officials noted that the app, available in Tamil, English, Telugu, and Hindi, is anticipated to reduce wait times at ticket counters and facilitate smoother transfers between different transport modes.

"Passengers can plan, pay, and travel across various modes with just a few taps - a transformative change for Chennai's public transport system," stated CUMTA special officer I. Jayakumar.

Transport planners believe that the CMP, along with the unified ticketing system, could serve as a model for other metropolitan areas aiming to enhance service integration and improve the commuter experience.

By providing a common platform and a forward-looking vision, the State government aims to boost mobility, alleviate congestion, and lower pollution levels.

Through these initiatives, Chennai is positioning itself as a leader in mobility reforms in India, striving to develop a modern, commuter-friendly, and sustainable transport framework for the future.