Light Rail Transit

LRT: The search for a viable and costeffective transport system

Abstract

The Central Government is proposing to promote the Light Rail Transit System as an alternative means of the fast transportation system in metropolitan regions because of the growing concerns regarding the viability of the expense of metro rail projects, especially in smaller cities. One of the forms of urban rail transit, called the ‘light rail transit (LRT), uses tram-like rolling stock but operates at a higher capacity and frequently on a dedicated right-of-way. Between the high-capacity Metro rail and the low-capacity bus services, LRT is a medium-capacity mode of mass rapid transit.

LRT, or light rail transit, uses infrastructure and equipment typically smaller than those found in commuter/regional and metro rail/subway modes of heavy rail transportation. Some transportation options, including people movers and personal rapid transit, might be viewed as even lighter. LRT can be elevated, partially grade-separated, or at grade. Like road vehicles, light rail cars typically operate at significantly lower speeds but have a top speed of about 100 km/h.

Emphasis on LRT

The Central Government plans to introduce a new mass transit system named Light Rail Transit to improve city public transportation systems. With tracks on the ground rather than elevated or underground segments, as with metro rail routes across the nation, the system known as the Metrolite has become a dedicated rapid rail corridor in cities and villages. The criteria and specifications for Metrolite have been finalised and delivered to the Railways for assessment by the Housing & Urban Affairs ministry of the central government.