This thread will track the developments & discussions related to LRT project that was launched today.

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/4039/getimageyj6.png

WB govt, SREI Infrastructure Finance ink MoU for LRT (http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/Economy/Infrastructure/WB-govt-SREI-Infrastructure-Finance-ink-MoU-for-LRT/articleshow/4151569.cms)

KOLKATA: The West Bengal government and SREI Infrastructure Finance on Wednesday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to set up the country's
first light rail transit (LRT) system. A special purpose vehicle, christened Kolkata Mass Rapid Transit Pvt Ltd, has been formed to implement the proposed Rs 6,000 crore project.

To be executed in two phases, the project will be implemented by a consortium led by SREI Infrastructure and will include technology partner Amex International of Czech Republic and a state government undertaking, West Bengal Transport Infrastructure Development.

"I have urged those executing the project to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) by this fiscal and begin construction latest by next year. We will take about four-to-five years to complete the project from the day we commence construction," said West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, addressing mediapersons during the MoU signing ceremony held in Kolkata on Wednesday.

Incidentally, the project will comprise two corridors -- Joka-Esplanade and Esplanade-Barrackpore links. The air conditioned LRT will connect the northern suburbs with the southern fringes of the city through the central business district and cover some 40 kms in just 90 minutes.

It will touch 37 stations including Taratala, Khidderpore, AJC Bose Road, Park Street, Esplanade, Sealdah, Shyambazar, Dunlop, Khardha, Titagarh and Barrackpore.

For starters, the train is projected to carry some 1.2 lakh passengers per month and subsequently, 4.8 lakh passengers per month.

Emphasising the need for such a system, SREI Infrastructure Finance chairman & managing director Hemant Kanoria said, "Road space in Kolkata has shrunk substantially rendering navigability of vehicles impossible. More so, since the number of vehicles have increased manifold over the years. This coupled with the regular inflow of people from districts is making commuting chaotic."

Given the anticipated vehicular growth in the future, and increasingly lower availability of road space and time constraints, construction of flyovers and elevated tracks would be the ideal solution, he pointed out.

"The proposed light rail transit system," Mr Bhattacharjee added, "will meet the East-West Metro at Sealdah to help office goers commuting from one end of the city to the other. Implementation of all three — the light rail transit system, the East-West Metro and the ring road to be built around Kolkata —
collectively will solve the city's transport problem in the near future."

OMG...this is massive. I thought that the LRTS will only connect the southern suburbs but no, it runs the entire breadth of Kolkata LENGTH WISE. Kolkata is gigantic when measured North to South. This must mean that the LRTS track will bypass center city!!!


WOW...simply wow.

question: will the track be laid on a new pattern through the demolition of buildings or will it go on top of a road?

Yes, this is great. Really great.

Good job, ArijeetB, I wanted to start the thread and you have beaten me to the job.

Hope it happens without the usual lemons coming into the way.:cheers:

Just like metro rail and mobile phones, Kolkata is again set to lead the way in India. Awesome.

Would be great to see it extended to Kalyani.

Yes, this is great. Really great.

Good job, ArijeetB, I wanted to start the thread and you have beaten me to the job.

Hope it happens without the usual lemons coming into the way.:cheers:

Just like metro rail and mobile phones, Kolkata is again set to lead the way in India. Awesome.

Would be great to see it extended to Kalyani.

fred, thanks:) Yes, it should be another 'first' for the country to set a trend. The original design about three years back talked of a diversion from Esplanade to Salt lake and another to Panihati. I believe that could not get approved.

question: will the track be laid on a new pattern through the demolition of buildings or will it go on top of a road?

@ kolkatausa - I think tracks would be on top of roads along the center or along the sides.

confused about the real differance between LRTS and Monorail.specially in respect of what's being proposed in B'lore and Kolkata.means around how much passengers it could bear and differance of speed between them etc.. if you discover a significant differance between them then which way of transport system would you prefer.thanks.

confused about the real differance between LRTS and Monorail.specially in respect of what's being proposed in B'lore and Kolkata.means around how much passengers it could bear and differance of speed between them etc.. if you discover a significant differance between them then which way of transport system would you prefer.thanks.

the main difference as the term 'mono' implies is there is only one rail. I am guessing the passenger carrying capacity is lower in mono than in LRT. For Kolkata any transit system that can move maximum number of people on a hourly basis will work.

the main difference as the term 'mono' implies is there is only one rail. I am guessing the passenger carrying capacity is lower in mono than in LRT. For Kolkata any transit system that can move maximum number of people on a hourly basis will work.

I guess kolkata monorail project is still on.. Check wikipedia for the List of Rapid Transits in India
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Rapid_transit_in_India

question: will the track be laid on a new pattern through the demolition of buildings or will it go on top of a road?

here have some information about it:
The Rs 6,000-crore project will mean 1,040-km-long elevated tracks from Barrackpore to Joka, passing through the city’s Central Business District.

“In a city where only six per cent of the total area is used as road space, it is very difficult to create a fast moving transit on the surface level. We really need a mass transit system for having an adequate transport infrastructure in the city in future. The idea of having an elevated train (LRTS) and east-west metro corridor is basically to provide a mass transit in the city,” Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee said at the function where the MoU was signed.

source: Indian Express (http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/kolkata-on-a-high-state-seals-monorail-mou/425443/)

but i don't know which reporter wrote this "1,040-km-long elevated tracks from Barrackpore to Joka,"
it's a big misprint there.

here have some information about it:
The Rs 6,000-crore project will mean 1,040-km-long elevated tracks from Barrackpore to Joka, passing through the city’s Central Business District.

“In a city where only six per cent of the total area is used as road space, it is very difficult to create a fast moving transit on the surface level. We really need a mass transit system for having an adequate transport infrastructure in the city in future. The idea of having an elevated train (LRTS) and east-west metro corridor is basically to provide a mass transit in the city,” Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee said at the function where the MoU was signed.

source: Indian Express (http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/kolkata-on-a-high-state-seals-monorail-mou/425443/)

but i don't know which reporter wrote this "1,040-km-long elevated tracks from Barrackpore to Joka,"
it's a big misprint there.yeah , should have been a 40KM stretch between barrackpore to Joka

really nice brothers, to hear such a project being implemented. I wish when do the people in other states take a note of all this. By far one of the most under rated cities..

way to go kolkata!!!

Thanks for a separate thread. I was very busy for last couple of days and not abled to join you guys:ohno:. It is great that they have taken the steps (Even it is just before the election as we know). But there are many obstacles waiting ahead. Land will be the problem again. Just look at the route. I will be surprised if they can manage a single acre of land. Though I always say lets hope for the best. Btw, I would not mind if our CM (or CPM) uses these projects for the election purpose. After all who wants to see that ugly lady as a CM of west Bengal? I want Buddha babu to be our CM again.

Thanks for a separate thread. I was very busy for last couple of days and not abled to join you guys:ohno:. It is great that they have taken the steps (Even it is just before the election as we know). But there are many obstacles waiting ahead. Land will be the problem again. Just look at the route. I will be surprised if they can manage a single acre of land. Though I always say lets hope for the best. Btw, I would not mind if our CM (or CPM) uses these projects for the election purpose. After all who wants to see that ugly lady as a CM of west Bengal? I want Buddha babu to be our CM again.

good news. land won't be much of a problem, because the track will be set atop an existing road.

I read somewhere that they will submit the feasabilty study for this project in Sept 2009 and construction will start only in 2010.

The route shown will go through some of the busiest and densest parts of Kolkata. How do they plan to build this without causing too much inconvenience is a question. If they need land, then it will be a major headache.

The self declared intellectuals of Bengal plus Miss Mamata will oppose for the sake of opposing. And if Mamata Bannerjee wins the up coming elections then she will probably scrap all development projects and ask people of Bengal to sow potato in the fields and sell garments on footpaths.

The state government seems to be in a foundation stone laying spree because of the elections. Hopefully most of the projects will not meet the same fate as many of the earlier projects.

I read somewhere that they will submit the feasabilty study for this project in Sept 2009 and construction will start only in 2010.

The route shown will go through some of the busiest and densest parts of Kolkata. How do they plan to build this without causing too much inconvenience is a question. If they need land, then it will be a major headache.

The self declared intellectuals of Bengal plus Miss Mamata will oppose for the sake of opposing. And if Mamata Bannerjee wins the up coming elections then she will probably scrap all development projects and ask people of Bengal to sow potato in the fields and sell garments on footpaths.

The state government seems to be in a foundation stone laying spree because of the elections. Hopefully most of the projects will not meet the same fate as many of the earlier projects.

Actually she won't. Mamata was the pro-industrialization voice of WB until the government turned pro-industrialization. Mamata's agitation is for the sake of agitating the government and also to get votes. If Mamata comes to power, she will also follow a pro-industrialization policy but the idea of her coming to power is laughable. She is too ugly for politics. She should try her luck somewhere else...I am looking for a maid.

"First"? The privately funded DLF LRT in Gurgaon is way ahead of you. :bash:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=17870530#post17870530

The dates in the article above are all wrong, but HUDA released the RFQ in December 2008, DLF is the sole bidder, and construction should begin in 2009.

"First"? The privately funded DLF LRT in Gurgaon is way ahead of you. :bash:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=17870530#post17870530


Chill man. No one here to compete with Gurgaon etc. We would be happy if they make it. Whether it is before or after Gurgaon, it hardly makes any difference to us. And we will be proud if Gurgaon gets the first LRT in the country.

Kolkata: While the state government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the country’s first Light Rail Transit System (LRTS) in Kolkata, it’s not sure how it will raise funds for the Rs 4,500-crore project that will link the city’s southern suburbs and northern suburbs.
The MoU for the project was signed on Wednesday at a function that was attended by Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. The first proposal for monorail project was submitted in 1994-95 by the Mukund group but was rejected outright. A modified LRTS project was again mooted in 2004 and the state government announced that the project would come up in 4-5 years. The project, however, remained mothballed.

Though the foundation stone for the mega monorail project has been laid, the state government is still waiting for a detailed project report and funds.

S S Chakraborty, chairman, Consulting Engineering Services (India) Pvt Ltd, the consultancy firm for the project, admitted that the project had been hanging fire for want of funds. “Initially, we went for the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) scheme for which we needed to proceed through the Union urban development ministry and the Planning Commission. We were asked to submit a mobility plan by the Planning Commission, which we did a few years ago. But we are yet to receive any response,” said Chakraborty.

“We were told if we get the funds for the project under the JNNURM scheme, then funds for all other projects under it may dry up. So, we had to drop the idea,” said Chakraborty. “At present, some funds will come from the finance partners of the consortium for which they will collect the royalty for the next 30 years after the project is completed. Some amount of funds will be received from advertisements and rest of the funds will be given by the state government which is equivalent to viability gap funding,” he added.

The state had also urged for a viability gap funding for the project but was denied by the Centre, said a senior transport official.

The CES is not even sure what amount has to be funded by the state and whether it will be able to afford it.

A CES official said the LRTS project was delayed since the state government wanted to go slow on it as the funds for the East-West Metro Corridor project was also not arranged till then.

“It’s only after the Japan Bank for International Cooperation agreed to give loan for the East-West Metro Corridor project that we got the nod for proceeding with the LRTS project,” said the official.

There is a little scope of getting loans from the international banks for the project as the Asian Development Bank does not fund transport projects and the World Bank did not take any interest in it.

State transport secretary Sumantra Cowdhury refused to comment saying he is too busy.


source: Indian Express (http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/monorail-red-herring-where-is-the-money/425933/)

LOL.. the govt. is crazy!!! It is doing in the reverse order... First they should be sure of wat the funds will be and where it'd come from, only then it's should propose...
Proposed now.. no funds, dpr and feasibility.. wat now!!:lol:

LOL.. the govt. is crazy!!! It is doing in the reverse order... First they should be sure of wat the funds will be and where it'd come from, only then it's should propose...
Proposed now.. no funds, dpr and feasibility.. wat now!!:lol:

they are talking about the monorail not the LRTS. The LRTS will be the first in the country.

besides the source is Indiaexpress...haha....not sure we can trust them.

Metro Line 3, which was proposed from Dakshineshwar (in north) to Thakurpukur (in south) may not construct, because 1) Line 1 will extend from Dumdum to Dakshineshwar.
2) A light rail line (not tram line) may be run from Barrackpur (in north) to Joka (in south) in future, which will mostly follow the proposed line 3. The common route with metro will be from Baranagar to Shialdaha, and from Behala to Joka.

The ambitious light rail line from Barrackpur to Joka may run via Baranagar, Shyambazar, Rajabazar, Shialdaha, Esplanade, Majherhat and Behala. Will then the tram tracks from Shyambazar to Mominpur closed, or just updated from tram to light rail standard?

I think that light rail will use overhead wire. Am I right?

Metro Line 3, which was proposed from Dakshineshwar (in north) to Thakurpukur (in south) may not construct, because 1) Line 1 will extend from Dumdum to Dakshineshwar.
2) A light rail line (not tram line) may be run from Barrackpur (in north) to Joka (in south) in future, which will mostly follow the proposed line 3. The common route with metro will be from Baranagar to Shialdaha, and from Behala to Joka.

The ambitious light rail line from Barrackpur to Joka may run via Baranagar, Shyambazar, Rajabazar, Shialdaha, Esplanade, Majherhat and Behala. Will then the tram tracks from Shyambazar to Mominpur closed, or just updated from tram to light rail standard?

I think that light rail will use overhead wire. Am I right?

Light rail will use elevated tracks that would run over existing roads. There is nothing to be updated from tram standards. Not sure about North Kolkata but from Joka and up north till Taratala it makes no sense to run trams.

they are talking about the monorail not the LRTS. The LRTS will be the first in the country.

besides the source is Indiaexpress...haha....not sure we can trust them.

LOL!! mabbe.. But this is not really "the first" LRTS proposed.... Already a Rubber tyred LRTS has been proposed by DLF for gurgaon and is on the verge of approval (corridors were suggested by RITES)..

neway, lets hope this doesnt get stuck anywhere and lets see it proceed at a gud pace!!:cheers:

Light rail will use elevated tracks that would run over existing roads. There is nothing to be updated from tram standards. Not sure about North Kolkata but from Joka and up north till Taratala it makes no sense to run trams.

My hope, there should not be any clash between tram, metro & light rail in future, because all these transports are pollution free, which is essential for a polluted city like Kolkata.

However, people from Mominpur to Joka may be happy, because light rail will partly foreget their tram closure sorrows.

Tram line to Joka has closed for converting D.H. Road from state highway to national highway, and a NH should not carry tram.

But should a NH carry illegal hawkers, auto-rickshaws etc?

I think that light rail will use overhead wire. Am I right?

Metro Line 3, which was proposed from Dakshineshwar (in north) to Thakurpukur (in south) may not construct, because 1) Line 1 will extend from Dumdum to Dakshineshwar.
2) A light rail line (not tram line) may be run from Barrackpur (in north) to Joka (in south) in future, which will mostly follow the proposed line 3. The common route with metro will be from Baranagar to Shialdaha, and from Behala to Joka.

The ambitious light rail line from Barrackpur to Joka may run via Baranagar, Shyambazar, Rajabazar, Shialdaha, Esplanade, Majherhat and Behala. Will then the tram tracks from Shyambazar to Mominpur closed, or just updated from tram to light rail standard?

I think that light rail will use overhead wire. Am I right?

:rofl:

:rofl:

god's pool = thakurpukur

I think that light rail will use overhead wire. Am I right?

Is there any official site of Kolkata light rail?

Wikipedia informs that along this light rail system, Kolkata will also construct a monorail system from Newtown to Bajbaj. Construction will start from March 2009.

So I hope, Kolkata will get four electric rail transit in future - tram, metro, lightrail & monorail. Then Kolkata will be unique in India as transportation.

I think that light rail will use overhead wire. Am I right?

Is there any official site of Kolkata light rail?

Wikipedia informs that along this light rail system, Kolkata will also construct a monorail system from Newtown to Bajbaj. Construction will start from March 2009.

So I hope, Kolkata will get four electric rail transit in future - tram, metro, lightrail & monorail. Then Kolkata will be unique in India as transportation.

^^if the monorail venture becomes a reality in the next 5 years or so, we can see a new CBD developing with Batanagar as the hub.

Is there any official site of Kolkata light rail?

Is there any official site of Kolkata light rail?
yes. top secret as of now.

Are their any latest updates on on this Project. On 12th June SREI's Mr Kanoria said that it was progressing as per schedule.
Does any body knows's if they have already started work on it ?

Telegraph (http://www.telegraphindia.com/1090709/jsp/calcutta/story_11206703.jsp)


Project report hurdle on light rail path
A STAFF REPORTER
The chief minister at the launch of the Light Rail Transit. A Telegraph picture

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee’s dream project for the city — the Light Rail Transit System — seems to be in limbo for want of a detailed project report.

Almost five months have passed since the chief minister launched the project, but Consulting Engineering Services (CES), which is supposed to carry out work for the report, is yet to get a letter from Srei Infrastructure Finance Limited, the principal promoter of the project.

The document holds the key to the project because it will outline all relevant details, including the terms of reference and how the work will be executed.

“We are yet to receive a letter from Srei asking us to start work for the report,” said S.S. Chakraborty, the chairman-cum-managing director of CES.

The chief minister, while launching the project on February 18, had set a five-year deadline but the delay in preparing the report has left transport department officials wondering when work will finally start and when the 40km route from Joka to Barrackpore will be commissioned.

Senior officials of the state government have held a few meetings, including two in Delhi, to get the “stuck” project rolling, but that has not helped. Frustrated, the CES has shot off letters to chief secretary Ashok Mohan Chakrabarti seeking a way out.

Srei, however, maintains the project is on track. “Things are under control and there is nothing to be worried about,” said Braj Kishore, the vice-president of the company. “As for the letter (to CES on starting work for the project report), I wouldn’t comment.”

The company’s chairman-cum-managing director, Hemant Kanoria, couldn’t be contacted.

The Light Rail Transit, to run on elevated tracks across 37 stations, is set to be India’s first-of-its-kind mass transport system. A consortium led by Srei, in association with the West Bengal Transport Infrastructure Development Limited, has been awarded the contract to execute the Rs 6,000-crore project.

Realising the importance of the project in a city starved of road space, the chief minister had called for speedy execution.

“A Special Purpose Vehicle for the project has been created and we can’t wait. The detailed project report has to be completed by this year so real work can start from 2010,” the chief minister had said. Transport department officials said it was Srei’s responsibility to write to the CES seeking the report and foot the bill for the preparatory work. Experts said around Rs 5-6 crore would be required to prepare the report.

* The points the report would cover include:
* Survey report of the 40km stretch
* Location and type of stations to be built
* How to connect the route with that of the East-West Metro
* Passenger disposal system at the stations

i don't approve of a LRTS in the city. we already have too many tracks to begin with. kolkata is beyond well connected. what we need now is world class coaches from europe.

I support light rail, but construction yet not started either from Barrackpur or from Joka. I think it was an Assembly Election stunt.

I guess the construction are suppose to be started from next year. This year they are suppose to submit the plan containing the every single details. I hope this will not be a gimmick and construction will start from next year.

Btw - any update between Srei and CES tussle.

Thanx for your hope. I'm also and optimist.

Source : TOI
LRT project may hit land hurdle (http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOIKM/2009/09/14&PageLabel=3&EntityId=Ar00304&ViewMode=HTML&GZ=T)
Suman Chakraborti | TNN

Kolkata: The Rs 6,000 crore Barrackpore-Joka light rail transit (LRT) project — “inaugurated” by chief minister before the Lok Sabha polls — has got into a land acquisition muddle. After the Vedic Village scam and scrapping of the IT hub project at Rajarhat, it would be extremely difficult for the government to identify and hand over several hundred acres, to the developers.
Against the huge project cost to be borne by the private company, former transport minister Subhas Chakraborty had promised that the state would hand over about 250 acres to the developer — Srei Infrastructure Finance Limited, which along with its technical partner Amex Corporation would execute the project — to set up a township.
However, with the state government now facing trouble over land acquisition, it is uncertain whether the government would actually be able to find out so much of land within the city or its surroundings.
According to the MoU inked by the state and Srei, the developer would get 20% of the project cost as cross-subsidy. Chakraborty had promised to pay this cross-subsidy in the form of 250 acres of land. While some officials maintained that handing over land for the project will not be a problem, some others didn’t agree with that.
“People may be wondering where this land will come from. About 300 acre is lying vacant at the Joka end. Also, there is a closed factory at the Barrackpore end where 40 acre of land might be available,” said an official. But in the present scenario, it might not be easy for the government to acquire the land.
Asked to comment on the problem, state transport minister Ranjit Kundu skirted the acquisition issue and said, whatever problem the project was facing would be resolved soon.
Apart from land acquisition difficulties, it would take at least six more months to complete the detailed project report, officials said. This means, work on the project will not start before March next year, if the government can solve the problems related to land by then. It would also mean an escalation of the project cost.

atleast they are planning on having one.

but i don't see how it is plausible given that the metro already runs the same lenght. extending the metro would be a better plan.

From todays Telegraph (http://www.telegraphindia.com/1091007/jsp/calcutta/story_11578098.jsp)


Light rail system for swift commute
SANJAY MANDAL

http://img188.imageshack.us/img188/1821/07rail.jpg

Calcutta is poised to travel light — literally — as part of a modified version of the rapid-transit rail network promised in Mamata Banerjee’s budget.

The city’s first Light Rail Transit (LRT) system will connect Majherhat, Joka, Budge Budge, Garden Reach and Diamond Harbour in the south —a circular stretch of around 80km — to the Metro and suburban railway networks.

The original plan was to expand the Metro Railway network but a preliminary feasibility study indicated that an LRT system would be more suitable given the topography and availability of land. A light rail transit system generally has lower capacity than conventional trains. The rakes resemble modern trams but are much faster and quieter.

“The route survey is underway,” a Railway Board official told Metro from New Delhi.

Metro Railway, which is conducting the survey, will submit its report to the Railway Board.:ohno: “We hope to complete the task in two months,” a Metro official said.

The Majherhat-Joka stretch, which is around 8km, has already been surveyed.

The 80km route (see chart) will begin at Majherhat, touch Joka and reach Diamond Harbour before taking an about-turn to Budge Budge, from where it will head towards Garden Reach and Kidderpore. The route will culminate at Rabindra Sarobar after crossing Tolly’s Nullah, where there will be a passenger interchange with Metro and the suburban railway network of Eastern Railway’s Sealdah-Budge Budge section.

According to a railway official, the LRT project will not only ease traffic congestion on Diamond Harbour Road but also curb pollution.

He said the project cost of close to Rs 3,000 crore would have been higher had the route been included in the Metro rail network. “We would have also faced problems in setting up track connections and a maintenance depot for rakes.”

does that make any sense? why would the LRT go all the way down to raichak? who would use it then? or are they planning on creating another Kolkata growth sprout down down south?

don't ask me that..

who is? i am just refering to the map...which makes no sense.

Somehow I don't like the idea of this LRT. This elevated line will pass through the Chowringhee area and completely ruin the view, like what the metro is doing in Bangalore (in M.G. Road).

Why can't they improve the incredible tram network Kolkata has. I am in Paris now and saw that Trams have been reintroduced here after nearly 60 years. They have 4 line and thinking of further extending the network.

I think Trams can have similar gains as the LRT with much less cost, if implemented properly

Somehow I don't like the idea of this LRT. This elevated line will pass through the Chowringhee area and completely ruin the view, like what the metro is doing in Bangalore (in M.G. Road).

Why can't they improve the incredible tram network Kolkata has. I am in Paris now and saw that Trams have been reintroduced here after nearly 60 years. They have 4 line and thinking of further extending the network.

I think Trams can have similar gains as the LRT with much less cost, if implemented properly
Frankfurt and Amsterdam also have very efficient tram network. Amster. trams are just like CCU trams but lines are dedicated and isolated from regular car traffic. As a result they could have high speed.If CCU can have such dedicated lines we could have the same high speed trams!

^^Where's the space?
plus the traffic conditions differ way too much in both the cities..

Frankfurt and Amsterdam also have very efficient tram network. Amster. trams are just like CCU trams but lines are dedicated and isolated from regular car traffic. As a result they could have high speed.If CCU can have such dedicated lines we could have the same high speed trams!

Exactly, That's why I think dereserving the tram tracks is another blow to the trams in Calcutta. For narrower roads it is okay but for roads like Rashbehari Ave or DS road, it was completely unnecessary

Transport Authority is completely silent about this lightrail system

Are tum vaapas aa gaye ho! Har thread me ek hi chiz kehte ho

hehe :D

Now here is some news after a long time

Source (http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/business/project-report-for-kolkata-light-rail-submitted_100311232.html)
Kolkata, Jan 28 (IANS) The detailed project report (DPR) of the light rail transit system (LRTS) project for Kolkata, being executed by non-banking financial company Srei Infrastructure Finance Limited, was submitted in November last year, a company chief said here Thursday.
“The DPR was done by Wilbur Smith and it was submitted in November,” Hemant Kanoria, chairman and managing director of the company said on the sidelines of a press meet to declare its third quarter financial results.

The LRTS, a Rs.6,000 crore project, will be executed by Srei Infrastructure Finance-led consortium that includes Czech-based Amex International as the technology partner and the government-run West Bengal Transport Infrastructure Development Limited.

The fast-mode transport system, to be executed in two phases, will connect the northern suburbs with the southern fringes of the city.

The entire route will have 37 stations and touch important city points like Behala, Khidirpore, Esplanade, Sealdah, Panihati and Barrackpore.

The four-coach air-conditioned train will have a maximum speed of 40 km per hour and carry 120,00 passengers daily initially. Later on, it will bear 480,00 passengers daily. Each train has a capacity of accommodating 1,250 passengers, the chairman said.

Kanoria said discussions regarding the project are going on and he is hopeful it will be completed in the next five years.

Good stuff. :cheers:

So this is being planned as more of a suburban system yet with less passenger load? Correct me if I'm wrong, but Barrackpore is outside the city limits, no? And I guess if they are planning LRTS rather than heavy rail then there must not be SO many commuters on this route? Idk if the media reportings is right about 12000 or if they meant 1 lakh 20k...

Good stuff. :cheers:

So this is being planned as more of a suburban system yet with less passenger load? Correct me if I'm wrong, but Barrackpore is outside the city limits, no? And I guess if they are planning LRTS rather than heavy rail then there must not be SO many commuters on this route? Idk if the media reportings is right about 12000 or if they meant 1 lakh 20k...

Yes , Barrackpore is outside the city limits and falls under the district N 24 Paraganas. Not sure what you mean by Suburban System , LRT will have dedicated lines and Light rail tranit system cannot be compared to suburban system , sorry if I am not able to understand . I think they are saying 12000 pasengers daily and not 1,20,000.

I'm wondering then why they don't simply extend their suburban railway system. Surely Kolkata has some sort of rail based system that extends through its metropolitan area? I hope this is at least running on routes far from those of already existing trains.

^^Barrackpore is already connected with the Suburban rail on the eastern line from Sealdah. Kolkata Suburban System is very extensive (extensive than that of Mumbai Suburban system). The route on which the LRT is proposed covers the areas which are not covered by the Sealdah Barrackpore Suburban line eg Behala. Expanding the Suburban line on to those areas will not be cost effective . An LRT or a metro running through these suburbs will definitely be helpful. Also this LRT route covers most of the areas which were initially considered part of Metro Line 3.

Here is the Map of Kolkata Suburban System

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/24/Kolkata_subarban_railway.jpg

Nice map dude. Thanks for explaining.

Yes , Barrackpore is outside the city limits and falls under the district N 24 Paraganas. Not sure what you mean by Suburban System , LRT will have dedicated lines and Light rail tranit system cannot be compared to suburban system , sorry if I am not able to understand . I think they are saying 12000 pasengers daily and not 1,20,000.

i guess 120000 is a reasonable figure considering the route will have 37 stations..
12000 is too low a value for the LRT to be feasible..

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Yes, 12000 person per day is not a feasable figure. Though this figure depends on the frequency of the service, can safely cross 2,00,000 per day for this strech of 37 stations.
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Yes , Barrackpore is outside the city limits and falls under the district N 24 Paraganas. Not sure what you mean by Suburban System , LRT will have dedicated lines and Light rail tranit system cannot be compared to suburban system , sorry if I am not able to understand . I think they are saying 12000 pasengers daily and not 1,20,000.

Barrackpur is outside of Kolkata Police & Municipal Corporation area, but it falls under Kolkata Telephone, Electric Supply & PIN Code Area.

Minding PIN Code, now limits of Kolkata are Barrackpur - Barasat - Baruipur - Bajbaj & Dakshineshwar.

Thanx for the info :)

A Malaysia-based infrastructure solution provider has evinced interest in setting up a monorail connection between Majherhat and Joka, recently proposed by railway minister Mamata Banerjee.

Scomi Engineering Bhd, the Malaysian company, had joined hands with Larsen & Toubro to set up India’s first monorail link between Jacob Circle and Chembur in Mumbai. It is set to be the technology partner and system integrator for a similar project in Bangalore.

“We have engaged officials to conduct a preliminary study of the market in eastern India. We would visit Calcutta with a presentation to showcase how monorail has transformed mass transportation across the world,” the CEO of the Scomi group, Shah Hakim Zain, told Metro in Kuala Lumpur.

“We also plan to build a monorail coach factory in India soon,” he added.

Mamata had announced that a survey had been commissioned for starting a monorail service between Majherhat and Joka.“The Railway Board is working on the project and has even made preliminary surveys,” said a senior official of Indian Railways.

“We plan to visit Calcutta by end-February and pitch strongly for the project,” said Scomi International president Kanesan Veluppillai.

“The technical committee of the Railway Board is open to a presentation on monorail. It is important to have a look at different models and how they operate before a final call is taken,” said a board member.

Source: The Telegraph

The light rail alignment may be changed in future because,

Metro should extend from Swami Vivekananda (Baranagar) to Barrackpur, which will be common with light rail.

Another metro/rail line may be constructed from Majherhat to Joka, which will be again common with light rail.

The master plan of Kolkata metro says that There will be another line from Ramkrishna Paramhangsa (Dakshineshwar) to Joka via Shyambazar, Shialdaha & Kalighat. Then the entire line will be common with light rail.

So, I think a light rail should be constructed either from east to west Kolkata, or such a line which will touch Airport, Baguihati, Ultadingi, Kolkata Station, Shalimar Station, i.e where easily transport is still not possible. Remember the hikes of petrol/diesel fare.

SOURCE (http://www.projectsmonitor.com/RAIL/srei-infra-awaits-nod-for-kolkata-lrt-system)
Srei Infrastructure Finance Ltd, a non-banking financial company, is waiting for the Government of India to approve the detailed project report for the Kolkata light rail transit system project. The DPR, prepared by consultants Wilbur Smith, was submitted in November last year.

The Rs 6,000-crore LRTS project will be executed by an Srei Infrastructure Finance-led consortium that also includes Czech-based Amex International as technology partner and government-run West Bengal Transport Infrastructure Development Ltd.

The fast-mode transport system, to be executed in two phases, will connect the northern suburbs with the southern fringes of Kolkata. The entire route will have 37 stations and touch important city points like Behala, Khidirpore, Esplanade, Sealdah, Panihati and Barrackpore. The project is expected to be completed in five years from the date of construction

SOURCE (http://www.projectsmonitor.com/RAIL/srei-infra-awaits-nod-for-kolkata-lrt-system)
Srei Infrastructure Finance Ltd, a non-banking financial company, is waiting for the Government of India to approve the detailed project report for the Kolkata light rail transit system project. The DPR, prepared by consultants Wilbur Smith, was submitted in November last year.

The Rs 6,000-crore LRTS project will be executed by an Srei Infrastructure Finance-led consortium that also includes Czech-based Amex International as technology partner and government-run West Bengal Transport Infrastructure Development Ltd.

The fast-mode transport system, to be executed in two phases, will connect the northern suburbs with the southern fringes of Kolkata. The entire route will have 37 stations and touch important city points like Behala, Khidirpore, Esplanade, Sealdah, Panihati and Barrackpore. The project is expected to be completed in five years from the date of construction

Good. I thought this project did not see the light of day. Poor Momota - how will she align IR's joka-BBD bagh metro along the same line?

Good. I thought this project did not see the light of day. Poor Momota - how will she align IR's joka-BBD bagh metro along the same line?

I hope this company is also keeping her party "happy".

I think a light rail should be constructed either from east to west Kolkata, or such a line which will touch Airport, Baguihati, Ultadingi, Kolkata Station, Shalimar Station, i.e where easily transport is still not possible. Remember the hikes of petrol/diesel fare.

Try to respect someone who is trying to respect the citizens of Kolkata

I think, the Barrackpur to Joka light rail will be made only after the change of 2011.

What about the monorail of Kolkata, which was planned from Newtown to Bajbaj?

Little progress on hyped light rail project

The ambitious Rs 6,000-crore Barrackpore to Joka light rail transit (LRT) project, which chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee launched before last year’s Lok Sabha polls, has been put on the backburner.
The project is supposed to be executed by Srei Infrastructure Finance Limited, along with its technical partner, Amex Corporation. The consortium signed an MoU with the state government last year.
According to highly placed sources, the project has not progressed at all since the launch. “The detailed project report (DPR) is yet to be prepared. There is no sign of the project taking off,” said a senior official.
Transport secretary Sumantra Chowdhury said a traffic survey for the project was under way. “But there is a small problem, as the railways has come up with a proposal to have a Joka to BBD Bag rail route that will clash with the proposed LRT alignment,” said Chowdhury.
The project has also apparently run into a land acquisition hurdle. As the private firm will have to bear the huge cost to execute the project, former transport minister Subhas Chakraborty had promised that the government would hand over about 250 acres to Srei. However, with all projects requiring land acquisition remaining on hold, it is uncertain whether the government would be able to find so much space within the city or its surroundings.
Sources said about 300 acres were lying vacant at the Joka end, while another 40 acres were available in Barrackpore, where a closed factory is located now. However, looking into the present scenario, it may not be easy for the government to actually acquire the land and hand it over to the developers.
Managing costs could also become a major problem as the delay would escalate the same. Srei officials said they were working on the project. “Traffic alignment and related route surveys are on,” said an official.

Source: TNN

It clearly proves that the light rail plan was nothing but an election stunt of the ruling state government.

It clearly proves that the light rail plan was nothing but an election stunt of the ruling state government.

I completely agree with you Mr.Mitra.. But we do need a LRTS network in Kolkata.. probably on a different route.. and also if we can make dedicated tram corridors, it'll help to a great extent! But this WB Govt is just sleeping..

I completely agree with you Mr.Mitra.. But we do need a LRTS network in Kolkata.. probably on a different route.. and also if we can make dedicated tram corridors, it'll help to a great extent! But this WB Govt is just sleeping..

Despite I always support tram & light rail more than metro, it is no doubt that in a million plus city like Kolkata, street running tram is creating much problems. Either we should much decrease number of automobiles to comfort street running trams, or should construct elevated/underground tram lines like Sydney, Istanbul etc.

Where more & more cities around the world is opening reserved track tramways, Kolkata is walking to completely opposite direction to destroy grassy reserved tracks to increase more accidents of tram-commuters!!!

million plus city

:lol:

:rofl:

LRTs will be extended to a metro. This thread should be closed.

a WB State Govt minister has said that if the joka bbd bag metro route materialises then the LRT project will be entirely scrapped. so in my opinion , this thread should be closed.

let it materialize first.

@ sidney jec if a minister says something like that then u can understand from the body language that the LRT will NEVER happen :ohno:...if it had to happen it wud hav already happened!....besides someone else has taken the advantage by proposing a metro route along the planned LRT route....and the survey has even been completed for the metro route, land acquisation and tender floating awaits..and RITES is doing the detailed project report (DPR)...so u can say the joka-bbd bag metro has already materialised!:banana:

@ sidney jec if a minister says something like that then u can understand from the body language that the LRT will NEVER happen :ohno:...if it had to happen it wud hav already happened!....besides someone else has taken the advantage by proposing a metro route along the planned LRT route....and the survey has even been completed for the metro route, land acquisation and tender floating awaits..and RITES is doing the detailed project report (DPR)...so u can say the joka-bbd bag metro has already materialised!:banana:

IMO, the probability of LRT project getting scrapped is more or less certain now with RITES already conducting feasibility studies on the stretch. Also, it appears that the state govt may give the approval to utilize the tram tracks from depot to Joka. Whether the joka-bbd bagh metro will eventually materialize is another story.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/Bengal-pitches-for-light-rail-transit-to-beat-road-crunch/articleshow/14857445.cms
Bengal pitches for light rail transit to beat road crunch

KOLKATA: The City of Joy desires elevated streetcars. Rising to the need, the Mamata Banerjee government is working on a proposal to upgrade trams to a light rail transit system.

Once on track, the trams in their new avatar of light rail transit (LRT) will be part of the "multi-model public transport strategy" for Kolkata, which being prepared on a war-footing. The LRT will mostly run in raised platforms in the middle of the road. The idea is feasible because surface trams and the tracks have taken a toll on the meagre 7% Kolkata road-space.

The best part of these new-age trams will be their ability to negotiate road bends that are characteristic of Kolkata. The LRT needs just about 25 metre radius. Hence, property acquisition for the project would be practically nil. What's more, people will prefer this mode of transit since LRT is often given priority at intersections, and it will zoom faster on the roads where Metro will be inaccessible, officials say.

The state government zeroed in on the idea, thanks to a recent study by the Institute of Urban Transport (IUT) at the behest of the ministry of urban development to study the Kolkata tram system. "In the present day context, the Metro is the most efficient mode of transit for Kolkata since it runs underground or overhead. It would make perfect sense to connect the Metro stations with elevated tramways as a feeder system. The LRT has been recommended by the urban development ministry. The state feels strongly about it," said Debashis Sen, secretary, urban development.

Sen has submitted a report to the ministry noting that "trams are not suitable for a road-constrained city like Kolkata. Moreover, it's an archaic system with many employees who are old and physically unfit." The report acknowledges the heritage value of trams and its tourism potential. CTC chairman Shantilal Jain, who is also vouching for the LRT and gradual phasing out of the present system, has chalked out the areas where the surface trams introduced to attract tourists. The list includes Victoria Memorial, the Brigade Parade Grounds, Race Course and Rabindra Sarovar. New corridors will be earmarked for the LRT. It could be introduced in Salt Lake and Rajarhat which are relatively planned as opposed to the chance-elected city like Kolkata.

What is heartening is that the economics of the ambitious plan could be well within reach. The Centre will fund the project on a PPP model. The tracks and other infrastructure can be provided by the government and the rolling stock (rakes etc) can be set up on a BOT (build-operate-transfer) basis. If Metro costs Rs 40 crore a km, LRT's infrastructural cost would be 40% of this.

The urban development ministry has already planned 45-km LRT network for Delhi at an estimated cost of Rs 3,776 crore. According to studies, operating and maintenance cost for LRT for the year 2011-12 was estimated at Rs 112 cr. One such techno-economic feasibility study is now being planned for Kolkata.

Two more reports by transport secretary, B P Gopalika, and DC (traffic) Dilip Bandopadhaya have made LRT the most feasible option for rejuvenation of trams. According to Gopalika's report, "Trams are not considered befitting for new Kolkata and are regarded as hindrance to smooth traffic flow due to low speed and large size. So a multi-model transport is needed the different modes integrated."

Bandopadhaaya, on the other hand, wrote: "Trams cause disruptions to smooth traffic flow particularly in one-way streets like Lenin Sarani. Breakdown is a major problem since trams can't be removed easily. The concretization of tram rails has created problems ... it is essential to create the road space for private vehicles." The deputy commissioner of police, traffic, has, thus, voted for LRT save certain stretches.

LRT trains are usually 2-4 coaches long and tinier than Metro. They wouldn't definitely be as spacious and effective as Metro trains. However they are cheaper, lighter and easier to operate. For Kolkata crowd, we will need 8-12 car LRT rakes with Air Conditioning.

Attaching an example:
http://farm1.staticflickr.com/118/289611528_b22ba6f736_b.jpg

Not a single pillar has been constructed till now

Just today, while coming to office I have seen, the first pillar of this project is being constructed near Mukundapur.

A suggestion

Can we reopen the Kolkata LRTS thread and rename that to Kolkata Tram annd LRTS thread ??

Sun - You opinion will be valuable here .. I would hate to mix Kolkata Metro and the Trams in the same thread.

Great Suggestion.
I dream LRTs running in Kolkata.

LRT trains are usually 2-4 coaches long and tinier than Metro. They wouldn't definitely be as spacious and effective as Metro trains. However they are cheaper, lighter and easier to operate. For Kolkata crowd, we will need 8-12 car LRT rakes with Air Conditioning.

Attaching an example:
http://farm1.staticflickr.com/118/289611528_b22ba6f736_b.jpg

LRT can be of 3-4 coaches but, they can increase the frequancy.
Its not a alternative to Metro, rather its better than Tram.

A suggestion

Can we reopen the Kolkata LRTS thread and rename that to Kolkata Tram annd LRTS thread ??

Sun - You opinion will be valuable here .. I would hate to mix Kolkata Metro and the Trams in the same thread.

Please start discussing about Tram and LRTs in below thread:
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?p=93232754#post93232754

Just today, while coming to office I have seen, the first pillar of this project is being constructed near Mukundapur.

R u sure, because I just came to the offc passing thru the same area, and did not see any pillar near Mukundapur, instead I saw a skeleton pillar near the Nicco park.

Pillar is just being constructed. they have placed the drill m/c and skeleton pillars are ready to be erected.

LRT trains are usually 2-4 coaches long and tinier than Metro. They wouldn't definitely be as spacious and effective as Metro trains. However they are cheaper, lighter and easier to operate. For Kolkata crowd, we will need 8-12 car LRT rakes with Air Conditioning.

Attaching an example:
http://farm1.staticflickr.com/118/289611528_b22ba6f736_b.jpg

Looks so beautiful, but we aren't so lucky to get this beauty. Govt. will bring in some ICF type of product.

LRT trains are usually 2-4 coaches long and tinier than Metro. They wouldn't definitely be as spacious and effective as Metro trains. However they are cheaper, lighter and easier to operate. For Kolkata crowd, we will need 8-12 car LRT rakes with Air Conditioning.

Attaching an example:
http://farm1.staticflickr.com/118/289611528_b22ba6f736_b.jpg

an 8-12 car LRT is not possible. Let alone LRT even the metro trains dont usually have 12 coaches. They are not as spacious but they can be very effective in reducing the congestion if the project is executed and managed properly.

SURFACE TRAMS SHOULD BE PART OF NEW LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT(LRT) SYSTEM. IN OTHER COUNTRIES THERE IS SURFACE LRT WHICH RUNS SLOW AND ELEVATED LRTS WHICH RUNS FAST.

HERE SURFACE TRAMS/LRTS MUST BE CONNECTED WITH ELEVATED LRTS SYSTEMS FOR RAPID TRANSPORT SYSTEM

KRISHNENDU RAY

+1000 completely agree
BTW Welcome to SSC :)

Finally the thread for LRTS starts, I hope LRTS also becomes a reality soon. :)

LRT station designs.

http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/9585/lrtvj.jpg

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/3476/westbengallrts.jpg

Wow, this thread is still alive, and started running again after two years.

Originally light rail was planned from Barrackpur to Joka, planned by former state government, but now things changed a lot. Metro line 5 is constructing from Baranagar to Barrackpur, and metro line 3 is constructing from Kyderpur to Joka. The remaining portion is ideal to introduce light rail, i.e. from Baranagar to Kyderpur via Shyambazar, Rajabazar, Shialdaha, Nonapukur & PTS.

But the current status is not clear, is that project finally dead?

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1404966

This international thread was created by me. All can post as much as possible about Kolkata’s rail transport, for informing the world about our great systems, and for improving & surviving. THIS IS A GREAT CHANCE.

Is it an elevated one???

they should stop thinking of LRTS as a smaller version of metro and instead use it as a feeder service complimenting the metro providing last mile connectivity. for every major metro node have a localised LRTS loop that connects the nearby important points that don't have a metro connection.

it can also be used for connecting the different lines themselves since right now the connections are too few.

they should stop thinking of LRTS as a smaller version of metro and instead use it as a feeder service complimenting the metro providing last mile connectivity. for every major metro node have a localised LRTS loop that connects the nearby important points that don't have a metro connection.

it can also be used for connecting the different lines themselves since right now the connections are too few.

Yes I hope they come up with a network that covers densely populated areas but with no metro network. It's no point restricting it to only salt lake and new town. Since it takes much less area than metro, it could be used in several areas to replace trams. But everything depends on the political will (or lack of it) of the govt.

I', fully supported both of you. LRT is far far far better than BRT. Gov't should think seriously for installing LRT network as much as possible, because it is cheaper than metro, and don't utilize surface like tram, so jamless.

This thread will track the developments & discussions related to LRT project that was launched today.

http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/4039/getimageyj6.png

The greatest election stunt done in 2009.

The greatest election stunt done in 2009.

I hope it's not a stunt this time. Kolkata really needs modern environment friendly transport. Those ramshackle buses will start disappearing as alternative transport options are available. LRTS is needed not just for saltlake or new town, but to connect with other suburbs as well. Whenever govt. thinks of anything new, they say "let's implement it in new town". :nuts:

I hope it's not a stunt this time. Kolkata really needs modern environment friendly transport. Those ramshackle buses will start disappearing as alternative transport options are available. LRTS is needed not just for saltlake or new town, but to connect with other suburbs as well. Whenever govt. thinks of anything new, they say "let's implement it in new town". :nuts:

ANOTHER OPTION CAN BE METRAIL.

THE WEBSITE FOR METRAIL IS: http://www.metrail.com/

IT HAS MORE ADVANTAGES IN KOLKATA ROADS. ADVANTAGES OF THIS SYSTEM IS GIVEN IN THE WEBSITE.

HT
Trams to be put on fast track Elevated tracks, air-conditioned coaches and much more

NEW DELHI: This is one poriborton no one can dare oppose. The country’s only existing tram system in Kolkata is set for a major revamp. The old, loss-making, sluggish trams that often break down leading to massive traffic jams will make way for state-ofthe-art, swanky, and, most importantly, fast-moving trams or their sophisticated twin, the light rail transit (LRT).

The new trams will travel at around 40 kmph and will be modelled on the latest versions plying in European cities, minister of state for urban development Saugata Roy told HT.

The Institute of Urban Transport (IUT) has prepared a blueprint for the revamp of the century-old Calcutta Tramways Company (CTC). Already, there have been a series of discussions between the state and the central agencies. “The central government is actively encouraging states to create an eco-friendly urban transport network. The Centre has even decided to provide 20% of the money as viability gap funding to the states for tram transport or light rail transit (LRT),” Roy said.
The IUT report, a copy of which is with HT, deals with three issues: the economics of Kolkata’s tram system, scope for its renovation and possibilities of introducing tram-trains (the latest version of trams) in India. The study has pitched for modern trams with air-conditioned coaches for Kolkata. There will be a maximum of three coaches in a tram and the routes will be planned to act as a feeder service to the Metro rail. The report also talks of GPS-based trams to avoid bunching.

A team from the urban development ministry recently visited France, Austria and Turkey to study the tram/light rail transit system in those countries. “In such cities as Paris, Leon, Vienna and Istanbul, trams or LTR forms an integral part of the public transport system. The Asian Development Bank is funding projects for developing tram systems,” Roy said.


The tram also seems to be the favoured mode of public transport worldwide. In the ’40s and ’50s, trams made way for cars with the boom in the automobile sector. But in the ’70s, many western countries brought back trams or the upgraded version, the LRT. Today, 343 cities across 48 countries have an efficient tram/LRT system running.

^^ But has the state govt. prepared any DPR to get funds for LRT? They need to work hard on proper planning (which they prefer to skip) to decide the areas which will be covered by LRT. Since LRT viaduct has lesser width than Metro, it can be implemented in somewhat congested areas. LRT can be run on loops around SaltLake, New Town and Howrah. These places have don't have good transport facilities. On the loop, there can be two points where it touches with E-W metro and NG-Airport stations.

Since LRT viaduct has lesser width than Metro, it can be implemented in somewhat congested areas. LRT can be run on loops around SaltLake, New Town and Howrah. These places have don't have good transport facilities. On the loop, there can be two points where it touches with E-W metro and NG-Airport stations.

No, we actually need a proper MONORAIL from Newtown to Saltlake, which can be integrated with the Saltlake metro serving a really good purpose. Talking about the LRTS, we need it on the the AJC Bose road and APC roads to prevent congestion....

No, we actually need a proper MONORAIL from Newtown to Saltlake, which can be integrated with the Saltlake metro serving a really good purpose. Talking about the LRTS, we need it on the the AJC Bose road and APC roads to prevent congestion....

First let them prepare a DPR and apply for funding from Centre. State govt. announces many things and doesn't follow up properly.

Any Update?

Any Update?

From PS Blog:


10th Sep (Monday): Presentation by UMTC on Light Rail Transport (LRT)
16th Sep (Sunday): Starting of weeklong activity in Rabindra Tirtha
19th Sep (Wed): Inauguration by Minister of Sculptor Workshop and two Children's Parks in New Town
22 Sep (Sat): Road show on Financial Hub at Mumbai
27 Sep (Thu): World Tourism Day at Digha

Rajarhat New Town may get a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system within few years if the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (Hidco) can implement its plans. The agency has already started working on the ambitious project.
On Monday, Urban Mass Transit Company (UMTC), the firm Hidco is consulting for the project, gave a presentation to state urban development minister Firhad Hakim and senior urban development and Hidco officials at Writers’ Buildings on
how the system could be developed in the township.
“UMTC officials gave a presentation before the minister on how the transport system of Rajarhat New Town could be developed. They gave three options — LRT, monorail and automatic-guided transport system. At the end of the presentation, they finally recommended LRT for the township. They will now work on the details of the project. We will try to float tenders by December this year,” said a senior urban development official.
Initially, UMTC provided three options for New Town keeping in mind the Metro rail connection the township will have in Action Area III and other areas soon. “In their presentation, they said that monorail was a new technology, but it’s excessively input-dependent. The automatic-guided transport system, which the Hidco authorities had earlier planned to run in short routes, could not be aligned with the upcoming Metro project. Finally, the LRT, which is like an elevated Metro but is lighter than the conventional Metro rakes, was recommended. Also, the construction cost of LRT is 20% less than the other two systems,” an official said.
It is learnt that authorities have zeroed in on the LRT system as they’re impressed with the possibility of its integration with the Metro corridor. “It will be a public-private-partnership (PPP) project. The viability gap funding will be looked at to make up the construction cost and those who will set up the system will have the rights of the stockyards and other commercial buildings that will be needed for the system.
Hidco authorities were also working on a plan to introduce personalized rapid transit system at places where battery-operated vehicles will ply on short and dedicated routes.
ELEVATED DREAM
WHAT IS LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM?
It is a form of public transport that is lighter and has lower speed than the conventional heavy rail or Metro system.
WHERE DOES IT OPERATE?
LRT system is widely operated in all major European countries. It is also popular in the US and Australia
IS IT THE FIRST LRT IN CITY?
Yes. Ex-CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee had inaugurated an LRT route from Joka to BBD Bag in 2009. But the plan was later scrapped
WHAT’S THE PLAN THIS TIME?
To have a connecting link with the Metro alignment that will move along New Town and develop transport system specially for Action Area III.
WHEN WILL IT COME UP?
Tentatively by 2015-16. Tenders to be floated by December 2012

Source: http://indiarailinfo.com/news/post/new-town-to-get-light-rail-in-three-years-indian-railways-news/95615

Rajarhat New Town may get a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system within few years if the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (Hidco) can implement its plans. The agency has already started working on the ambitious project.
On Monday, Urban Mass Transit Company (UMTC), the firm Hidco is consulting for the project, gave a presentation to state urban development minister Firhad Hakim and senior urban development and Hidco officials at Writers’ Buildings on
how the system could be developed in the township.
“UMTC officials gave a presentation before the minister on how the transport system of Rajarhat New Town could be developed. They gave three options — LRT, monorail and automatic-guided transport system. At the end of the presentation, they finally recommended LRT for the township. They will now work on the details of the project. We will try to float tenders by December this year,” said a senior urban development official.
Initially, UMTC provided three options for New Town keeping in mind the Metro rail connection the township will have in Action Area III and other areas soon. “In their presentation, they said that monorail was a new technology, but it’s excessively input-dependent. The automatic-guided transport system, which the Hidco authorities had earlier planned to run in short routes, could not be aligned with the upcoming Metro project. Finally, the LRT, which is like an elevated Metro but is lighter than the conventional Metro rakes, was recommended. Also, the construction cost of LRT is 20% less than the other two systems,” an official said.
It is learnt that authorities have zeroed in on the LRT system as they’re impressed with the possibility of its integration with the Metro corridor. “It will be a public-private-partnership (PPP) project. The viability gap funding will be looked at to make up the construction cost and those who will set up the system will have the rights of the stockyards and other commercial buildings that will be needed for the system.
Hidco authorities were also working on a plan to introduce personalized rapid transit system at places where battery-operated vehicles will ply on short and dedicated routes.
ELEVATED DREAM
WHAT IS LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT SYSTEM?
It is a form of public transport that is lighter and has lower speed than the conventional heavy rail or Metro system.
WHERE DOES IT OPERATE?
LRT system is widely operated in all major European countries. It is also popular in the US and Australia
IS IT THE FIRST LRT IN CITY?
Yes. Ex-CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee had inaugurated an LRT route from Joka to BBD Bag in 2009. But the plan was later scrapped
WHAT’S THE PLAN THIS TIME?
To have a connecting link with the Metro alignment that will move along New Town and develop transport system specially for Action Area III.
WHEN WILL IT COME UP?
Tentatively by 2015-16. Tenders to be floated by December 2012

Source: http://indiarailinfo.com/news/post/new-town-to-get-light-rail-in-three-years-indian-railways-news/95615

Whoz going to finance such big project?

LRT revived?

http://img518.imageshack.us/img518/5232/kolkatalrteb5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

CES is claiming that work on the Rs 4000 crore LRT project will start in three months. Talks are also going on with a Czech company for coaches. The initial plans are for connecting Joka to Barasat but the state government wants to extend it to Barrackpore.

I think it is dead, oh no, largely replaced by metro line 3 & 5.

Any news on LRTS or was it just another hoax like monorail?

Any news on LRTS or was it just another hoax like monorail?

Sounds like the later, since there is already a Metro line in construction upto Barrackpore. CTC, after its merger with CSTC and WBSTC may get some breather and think about new projects like that.

Any news on LRTS or was it just another hoax like monorail?

LRTS Project is ON. Hidco officer told me at Bengal Build.:cheers:

LRTS Project is ON. Hidco officer told me at Bengal Build.:cheers:

Any news who is going to finance it? Will it be under PPP model?

Any news who is going to finance it? Will it be under PPP model?

No idea boss. Govt Babus do not provide dat much INFO.:nuts::lol:

Is there any feasibility study for LRTS going on?

From PS Blog

Yesterday, I had a meeting with CRISIL. They have been chosen, after a bidding process, to be the Transaction Advisor and Consultant to Hidco for doing a Monorail Project in New Town on a PPP basis. UMTC from Delhi was also there. UMTC had earlier done a pre-feasibility study on the possibility of a Monorail System in New Town to cover areas that are beyond 500 metres away from the Metro Rail corridor now under construction. The idea is that the huge passenger load brought in by the Metro Rail should be able to disperse from selected stations in New Town through a Monorail corridor, designed to have 16 kms of length in two parts of 9 km and 7 km. For making the project viable, VGF (Viability Gap Funding) would be required from Govt of India under its PPP framework.
We had an in-depth discussions with Mr Rohit Chaturvedi, Director CRISIL and Mr Saurabh Suneha Associate Director of CRISIL. They are based in Mumbai and Delhi. The Delhi office would co-ordinate with DEA, GoI, Planning Commission, MoUD and UMTC. And, of course, in Mumbai, there is already a monorail that is being built.