Trams, or light rail transit (LRT), could be seen as more suitable than metro rail for several reasons in the context of Indian cities, though this may not apply to all urban areas. Here are a few reasons:
1. Cost: Trams typically have lower infrastructure costs compared to heavy rail metro systems. They require less extensive civil work, and their implementation could be more affordable, which is crucial for a developing economy like India.
2. Flexibility: Trams are more flexible in their routing compared to metros. They can run on existing streets, reducing the need for tunnelling or elevated structures. This flexibility allows for better integration with the existing urban fabric and could reduce disruption during construction.
3. Density: Many Indian cities have highly dense urban cores with narrow, winding streets, where constructing a metro system could be challenging. Trams can operate effectively in such environments due to their smaller size and lower speed.
4. Integration with other transport: Trams can be more easily integrated with other modes of transportation such as buses, rickshaws, and bikes. This is crucial in Indian cities, which often have diverse and mixed transportation systems.
5. Capacity: Although metros can carry more passengers, this capacity might not be needed in all areas. Trams can be suitable for medium-capacity routes, offering a balance between buses (lower capacity) and metros (higher capacity).
6. Urban revitalization: Tram systems can be used as a tool for urban revitalization, encouraging economic activity along their routes. They can serve as a catalyst for urban regeneration and the improvement of public spaces.
7. Eco-Friendly: Trams are powered by electricity, which makes them an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. This can help Indian cities to reduce their carbon emissions and air pollution levels.
8. Accessibility: Trams often have ground-level boarding, which can make them more accessible to the elderly, disabled, and people with strollers or heavy luggage. This can help to make public transport more inclusive.
However, it’s important to note that the suitability of trams versus metros can depend on the specific circumstances of each city. Factors such as population size, urban layout, existing infrastructure, traffic levels, and funding availability can all influence which type of system is most appropriate. In some cases, a combination of different types of transit might be the best solution.
Image by Peter Kraayvanger from Pixabay
