By Nyein Nyein

A week-long survey has been launched to explore linking train and bus stations, and depending on its findings, the bus-rail connectivity project will be taken forward, said U Hla Aung, joint secretary of the Yangon Region Transport Authority (YRTA).

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is conducting a survey, for the first time, from 2 to 8 December, on a pilot project that is currently on at the Thamine Railway Station (Baho road). Suggestions and opinions will be sought from the public as part of the survey.

“The survey is being conducted. We want to gauge public opinion to find out if the project is effective for the public or not, invite suggestions for more projects, and explore public attitudes towards the project. The survey will be conducted by JICA. Depending upon the results, we will carry out the connected operation between trains and buses,” said U Hla Aung.

“We want to boost transportation in future. That is why we are implementing the pilot project. By implementing the connected operation, the passengers can calculate the travel time, and travel with ease and comfort,” he added.

“The public transportation network is very important for people and the economic sector. Currently, YBS bus terminals are located near Thamine Station (Baho road). So, passengers will find it more convenient to change from bus to train and vice versa,” he said.

“Moreover, preparations are being made to ensure the convenience of passengers and adopt rules and regulations for passengers to follow at bus stations. PR is being conducted jointly with the public, with guidance staff appointed to give directions at the stations, and project areas are being built,” he said.

Currently, the connected operation bus line numbers are YBS 15,16,19,61,68,79,83,11,22, and 94. The bus-rail connectivity project will be conducted jointly by Myanma Railways, Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC), YRTA, JICA, and the traffic police.

Under an agreement with the Myanmar government, JICA is supporting the development of the bus transportation system, in terms of bus driver training, technology development, and transportation sector development. (Translated by Hay Mar)