US experts train Mumbai transport officials

A seven-member delegation from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the United States conducted a week-long training session for 55 transport officials. Various aspects of transport, including transport planning, integrated fare system, security and environmental sustainability were discussed.

The MMRDA is planning to set up National Transit Research and Training Institute (NRTI) in collaboration with the FTA this year.

“The next workshop, organised by the NRTI, will focus on public transport,” said PRK Murthy, chief, Transport and Communication Division, MMRDA.

Brian Michael Jenkins, director of Transportation Security Center of Excellence, Mineta Transportation Institute, San Jose, CA, said, “I can understand the plight of Mumbaikars due to the construction of the new transport system. However, they must understand that this is probably defining city’s public transport for at least another century.”

MMRDA and FTA have decided to interact once every three months after the NRTI is set up.