KATHMANDU: In what can be dubbed as a significant move towards bolstering road safety, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has unveiled plans to construct bus stops at 264 locations.
Allocating a substantial budget of 130 million rupees for the current financial year, the KMC aims to enhance public transportation infrastructure and mitigate traffic-related challenges.
Traffic expert consultant Jagatman Shrestha, an advisor to the metropolis, shared insights into the ambitious initiative.
He highlighted that the new bus stops will be strategically positioned, situated 500 meters before or a minimum of 200 meters behind each intersection.
This approach is designed to streamline traffic flow and reduce the occurrence of accidents, particularly those associated with bus stops located directly at squares.
Shrestha emphasized the incorporation of modern amenities, including internet connectivity, at these bus stops.
He noted that passengers will benefit from real-time information on bus routes, estimated waiting times, and the capability to accommodate up to three buses simultaneously.
As part of comprehensive urban planning, KMC is also gearing up for additional measures such as revising bus routes, expanding street lighting, implementing one-way road systems, standardizing motorcycle garage operations, and managing road infrastructure elements like cones, dividers, petrol pumps, signs, and markings.
Moreover, the metropolis is preparing awareness programs addressing various aspects of transportation, including the movement of daily consumables, freight vehicles, school bus schedules, parking management, and the school transport system.
Shrestha stressed the urgency of initiating work to adjust road signs promptly.
He emphasized that such adjustments should be undertaken exclusively by the official body after thorough study and analysis, which is currently in progress.
In line with their commitment to clear and visible road markings, KMC aims to allocate 440 million rupees in the current financial year for comprehensive improvements in the transport sector within its jurisdiction.
The metropolis is gearing up to call for bids for the construction of these strategically positioned bus stops, marking a significant leap forward in the city’s commitment to safe and efficient public transportation.
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