Kochi Metro Rail Limited signs pact to install GPS in buses

KOCHI: The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) and M/s. Urban Mass Transit Company,  promoted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs,  have signed a joint declaration of intent (JDI) for introducing GPS/GPRS-based bus tracking system in 1,000 private buses operating under seven  companies in Kochi. The objective is to install GPS devices in all buses in Greater Kochi area and  offer information-based solution to the public. The solution comprises installation, operation and maintenance of GPS devices, providing value -added services by analysing GPS feed, providing display units in buses and bus stops and  extending  the features of journey planner application for commuters of all modes of transport.

The live tracking of buses will be conveyed to the public through a mobile app-based journey planner provided by ZOPHOP, the technology partner of UMTC. The app will be added on to the Kochi-1 App, the mobile application system provided by KMRL's transit card. The on-board passenger information system and off-board public information system at few important bus terminals and bus shelters are also planned.  A modern, bus operations control centre is also planned which will be implemented as part of Cochin Smart City Mission.  

The control centre will have monitoring facilities for the motor vehicle department, city police and seven  bus companies. "The informed transit is aimed at easing the bus journeys and encouraging people to use public transport as their default option. A fleet- based autorickshaw network, which will be soon launched in Greater Kochi area,  will facilitate first and last mile connectivity to the public transport network", said Mr Mohammed Hanish, managing director, KMRL.