France offers aid in transport

  • 15/05/2008

  • Asian Age (New Delhi)

The chaotic Bus Rapid Transport System (BRT) is inviting much international attention with the French government now pitching to help the city cope with its transport crisis. Though the Delhi government has politely turned down the French offer to solve the BRT blues, it showed interest in a detailed survey and study for commissioning tramways in the city. In a meeting with Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit on Wednesday, French transport minister Dominique Bussecreau said his country was interested in offering possible funding to undertake a detailed survey and study for commissioning of tramways in Delhi. France also offered technical cooperation in various fields, including transport in the city. According to a statement, Mr Bussecreau while referring to the success of tramways in various cities in his country, said such a system would go a long way in making public transport system more reliable in the city. Sources said that the French minister showed curiosity in knowing about the status of the functioning of the BRT corridor and offered help in its successful running though the chief minister claimed that the system was being improved for the convenience of the commuters. Ms Dikshit apprised the visiting minister that her government was committed to develop public transport system. She stated that Delhi Metro route will cover length of 270-km during next two years, while the concept of monorail and light rail was being considered. The visiting minister also took keen interest in infrastructural developmental projects related to ensuing Commonwealth Games 2010.