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.

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?

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)


Mains

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