Multimodal Transport Hub

• 19 Mar 2024

Source: TH

Why in News?

Indian Railways plans to develop a Multi-Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) in Aspirational cities with a population of more than 10 lakh across the country.

• The programme is part of the infrastructure being developed for India’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative.

What is a Multimodal Transport Hub?

• About:
  • An MMTH is a transportation facility designed to integrate various modes of transportation such as rail, road, and mass transit systems in a single location.
  • The primary objective of an MMTH is to provide seamless connectivity and efficient transfer of passengers and goods between different modes of transportation.
• Key Features:
  • Railway Station: The railway station serves as a terminus for train services connecting different regions.
    • It is equipped with modern facilities for passengers including waiting areas, ticketing counters, platforms, and amenities.
  • Interstate Bus Terminus (ISBT): The ISBT facilitates interstate and intrastate bus services, providing connectivity to various destinations.
  • Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) Station: The MRTS station accommodates rapid transit services such as metro, light rail, or other forms of urban mass transit.
    • It connects the hub to the wider urban transit network and offers convenient transportation options for commuters.
  • Transportation Catchment Zone: The surrounding area of the MMTH serves as a catchment zone, attracting travellers from nearby regions and facilitating improved transport connectivity for the surrounding areas.
    • This enhances accessibility and contributes to the economic development of the region.

What are the Aspects of Viksit Bharat?

• Structural transformation: This refers to the shift of resources from low-productivity sectors (such as agriculture) to high-productivity sectors (such as manufacturing and services).
• Organising Labour Markets: This involves improving the quality and quantity of labour supply, enhancing the skills and employability of workers, and ensuring fair and efficient labour regulations.
• Increasing Competitiveness: This entails enhancing the efficiency and innovation of firms, improving the quality and diversity of products and services, and expanding the domestic and international markets..
• Improving Financial and Social Inclusion: This implies expanding the access and affordability of financial services and social welfare schemes for the poor and marginalised groups.
• Governance Reforms: This involves strengthening the institutions and processes of governance, such as the rule of law, accountability, transparency, and participation.
• Seizing Opportunities in the Green Revolution: This refers to adopting and promoting green technologies and practices, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate resilience.

What are the Government Initiatives for Railways and Transportation?

• The Gati Shakti Terminal (GCT) policy
• National Logistics Policy (NLP)
• Sagarmala’ and ‘Bharatmala for Investment in railway infrastructure
• Dedicated Freight Corridors

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Q. With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements: (2015)

1. The decomposition of human waste in the biotoilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum.
2. Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (d)

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Mains

Q. The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous coordination between the government and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss. (2022)