City rail system tender in a week

The much talked about light rail transit (LRT) system in Kolkata may soon become a reality as the government of West Bengal (GoWB) has firmed up plans for the system, Subhas Chakraborty, state minister for transport, said.

The government may float a global tender in a week inviting bids for the LRT system.

The state has decided to revive the demand of extending the existing Metro up to Barrackpore now that a 'friendly' government is at the Centre. A project report had been prepared in the past and the state would now push for its approval.

"We wanted to float the LRT tender some time ago and had applied to the Election Commission for a waiver as elections had been declared. EC turned down our plea but now that the poll is over we will float tender in a week. The contract will be awarded by November this year," he told Business Standard.

The government has received several LRT proposals using different types of technology and routes.

Ruf International of Denmark, that provides monorail services, has offered its rapid urban flexibles (RUF) system. In this system a specially-designed minibus-type unit would operate on a single track laid on columns that act as dividers in the middle of existing roads.

Itochu Corporation of Japan LRT project and the Skybus from Konkan Railway were the other proposals. Plans for high-speed trams and trolley buses have also been received.

Another proposal envisages monorail services between Joka and Barasat and between Naihati and Namkhana.

The project cost will vary depending on the length of the route and technology used. The RUF system will cost about Rs 600 crore. The project must also be aligned with proposed east west metro corridor.

The project cost and financing options would decide the proposal's fate. Ticket price will also be crucial.

LRT on elevated tracks was felt to be best suited in a city infamous for congested roads.