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Integrating transportation with tourism promotion is a key strategy that holds immense potential to unlock the cultural and natural treasures of West Bengal for travelers, shares Dibyendu Das, Director, Transport (PVD), Transport Department, Government of West Bengal in an exclusive interaction with Nidhi Shail Kujur of Elets News Network (ENN).

Can you share the department’s current priorities and strategies for enhancing transportation infrastructure across West Bengal?

Enhancing transportation infrastructure across West Bengal is a pivotal priority for the Transport Department. We recognise that a well-connected and efficient transport network is the backbone of socio-economic growth and development. To address this, our strategies are multifaceted and aim to cater to the diverse needs of both urban and rural areas.

First and foremost, we are actively engaged in a comprehensive assessment of the existing infrastructure to identify key areas for improvement. This involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including urban planners, engineers, and community representatives, to ensure that our initiatives align with the actual requirements of the regions.

Our focus is on modernizing and expanding road networks, bridges, and flyovers to alleviate congestion and improve overall connectivity. We’re committed to implementing state-of- the-art technologies in our projects to enhance traffic management, minimize travel time, and ensure a smoother flow of vehicles. These measures not only enhance convenience for commuters but also contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions and improved air quality.

In line with our commitment to sustainable mobility, we are actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the state. We’re working to establish EV charging infrastructure and incentives for both private individuals and commercial operators to transition to cleaner transportation alternatives. This not only aligns with environmental goals but also positions West Bengal as a forward-looking region in the transportation sector.

Furthermore, we are dedicated to integrating various modes of transportation to create a holistic and efficient network. This includes the expansion of metro lines, the enhancement of bus and tram services, and facilitating easier transitions between these modes. We’re also exploring the integration of technology-driven solutions to provide real-time information to commuters, enabling them to make informed decisions about their journeys.

Our current priorities and strategies revolve around fostering sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced transportation infrastructure throughout West Bengal. By prioritizing modernization, sustainability, and the needs of our citizens, we aim to propel the state’s growth and position it as a model for progressive transportation solutions.

How does the government envision the future of intermodal connectivity to provide seamless travel experiences for residents and visitors?

The future of intermodal connectivity is an integral component of our vision to revolutionize transportation experiences for both residents and visitors of West Bengal. We recognize that the key to efficient and sustainable travel lies in seamlessly integrating various modes of transportation into a cohesive network.

Our government envisions a scenario where individuals can transition effortlessly between different modes of transportation, such as buses, trams, metro lines, bicycles, and more. This means creating intermodal hubs that facilitate smooth transfers, making journeys more convenient, time- effective, and environmentally friendly.

To achieve this, we are committed to strategic infrastructure planning that includes well-designed intermodal stations. These stations will serve as convergence points for different modes of transport, enabling travelers to switch between them without hassle.

Our approach involves not only physical connectivity but also the integration of digital tools, such as real-time travel information, ticketing systems, and navigation apps, to provide a comprehensive travel experience.

Moreover, our focus on sustainable mobility extends to intermodal connectivity as well. We have already incorporated electric vehicles, shared mobility services, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure within and around these hubs. This approach not only reduces the carbon footprint but also contributes to a healthier and more vibrant urban environment.

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Our government’s vision for intermodal connectivity revolves around creating a harmonious and efficient transportation ecosystem where residents and visitors can seamlessly navigate our vibrant state. By integrating physical infrastructure, digital solutions, inclusivity, and sustainability, we are working towards providing a travel experience that is both convenient and forward- looking.

What plans are in motion to integrate transportation with tourism promotion, making it easier for travelers to explore the cultural and natural beauty of West Bengal?

Integrating transportation with tourism promotion is a key strategy that holds immense potential to unlock the cultural and natural treasures of West Bengal for travelers. Our department recognizes the synergies between transportation and tourism, and we are actively working on plans to create a seamless and immersive experience for visitors to explore the diverse beauty of our state.

One of our primary initiatives involves enhancing transportation connectivity to popular tourist destinations. We’re collaborating with local authorities and stakeholders to identify areas of high tourism interest and upgrading transportation infrastructure accordingly. This includes improving road access, public transportation routes, and parking facilities near these attractions.

To foster cultural exploration, we’re exploring the concept of themed routes that connect heritage sites, historical landmarks, and cultural centers. These routes will not only provide convenient transportation options but also offer travelers curated experiences that showcase the rich heritage and vibrant cultural fabric of West Bengal.

Furthermore, we are working on integrating technology to assist tourists in navigating the state. This includes developing digital platforms, mobile applications, and interactive maps that provide real-time information about transportation options, routes, and attractions. By leveraging technology, we aim to empower travelers with the information they need to make informed decisions and create personalized itineraries.

What role does innovation and technology play in the transportation sector, and how is the department incorporating these elements to improve services?

Innovation and technology play a transformative role in the transportation sector, enabling us to reimagine the way we design, manage, and deliver services. In the Transport Department of the Government of West Bengal, we recognize the immense potential that these elements hold, and we are actively integrating innovation and technology to enhance transportation services across the state.

At the heart of our approach is the utilization of cutting-edge technologies to improve traffic management and optimize the flow of vehicles. We’re implementing intelligent traffic management systems that leverage real-time data to monitor traffic patterns, predict congestion, and dynamically adjust signal timings. This not only reduces travel time for commuters but also contributes to a significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

In collaboration with the tech industry, we’re developing digital platforms that offer commuters real-time information about routes, public transportation schedules, and alternative modes of travel. These apps empower individuals to make informed decisions, choose the most efficient routes, and even contribute to easing traffic congestion by opting for carpooling or shared mobility solutions.

The integration of smart payment systems is another dimension of our technology-driven approach. We’re working towards enabling contactless payments for public transportation services, making the commuting experience more convenient and hygienic. This also includes exploring options for integrated ticketing systems that allow seamless transfers between different modes of transportation.

As we envision a future with electric vehicles (EVs) as a cornerstone of sustainable mobility, we’re investing in EV charging infrastructure across the state. Through partnerships with private entities and organizations, we’re establishing charging stations at strategic locations, promoting the adoption of EVs among the public and commercial operators alike.

How is the government ensuring that rural areas in West Bengal have adequate and efficient transportation connectivity for balanced development?

Ensuring equitable and efficient transportation connectivity in rural areas of West Bengal is a core commitment of the Government, and it forms a vital part of our efforts to foster balanced development across the state. We recognize that robust transportation infrastructure is essential for uplifting rural economies, improving access to services, and enhancing the overall quality of life for our rural citizens.

To address this, our approach begins with a comprehensive assessment of the existing transportation infrastructure in rural areas. We’re working closely with local authorities and communities to identify areas that require attention and improvement. This collaborative process helps us tailor our initiatives to the specific
needs and aspirations of each region.

One of our primary strategies is the development and maintenance of well-constructed rural roads. These roads not only connect villages to towns and cities but also provide essential links for agricultural produce to reach markets efficiently. We’re investing in road expansion, repairs, and upgrades to create a network that facilitates smoother movement of people, goods, and services.

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In regions where road connectivity might be challenging due to geographical factors, we’re exploring innovative solutions such as rural transport services, including bus routes, to ensure that even remote areas are not left behind. Our aim is to create a transportation ecosystem that is inclusive and caters to the diverse mobility needs of rural residents.

Moreover, we’re working towards integrating rural areas with broader transportation networks, including linking them to nearby urban centers through public transport services. This encourages the flow of people, skills, and opportunities between rural and urban settings, contributing to more balanced development and reducing migration pressures.

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