By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 12: As mobility continues to remain a big problem, the state government intends to enhance non-motorised transport (NMT) infrastructure in Shillong.
It will develop basic infrastructure, including walkways (preferably weather-proof), continuous and easily accessible footpaths, street lighting, street furniture, cycle lanes and parking spaces, the Shillong Urban Mobility Policy revealed.
The government also intends to take measures to enhance pedestrian safety, regulate vending on footpaths and ensure pedestrian crossing facilities at vulnerable/accident spots. This will include synchronising traffic signals, updating signage and road markings, and introducing traffic calming measures.
As regards medium-term measures, the policy says that exclusive NMT zones shall be created, especially in congested/commercial areas, to offer a pleasant experience. However, ‘Pilot No emission Zones’ shall be created in Shillong in the short-term itself.
In the long-term, 30% of road space will be allocated for NMT along arterial and sub-arterial roads to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.
As far as public transport is concerned, the government wants to develop high-speed green corridors by reserving a lane or one-way system.
The government will also promote the use of technology for functions such as monitoring mechanism, introducing smart mobility card, dedicated mobile application for journey planning, information assimilation, ticketing system, payment of fees, etc.
It will explore alternative mobility options like ropeways, cable cars, vertical elevators, etc considering the uneven contour and terrain characteristics in Shillong.
As far as auto and taxi (intermediate public transport) is concerned, the policy states that stricter enforcements and regulations shall be imposed to ensure that the taxi services provide comfortable and safe experiences to commuters. The setting up of a dedicated mechanism to report grievances shall also be explored for the benefit of commuters.
In addition, the government will develop supporting infrastructure such as designated embarkation and disembarkation points for IPTs along with taxi stands, waiting sheds, parking for taxis etc to improve services and safer commutes for all.
“Optimising parking shall be used as a key travel demand management tool. Parking prices shall be introduced for both on-street and off-street parking of private vehicles in the city. No parking zones shall be demarcated in the city and fines shall be imposed for illegal parking,” the document states.
It adds that disincentivising the use of private vehicles through strategies such as levying static and dynamic congestion price on private vehicles, especially in the city’s busiest roads, shall be explored.