Jaipur: In a strategic move to optimise the use of underground parking facilities at Ramniwas Bagh, Jaipur City Transport Services Limited (JCTSL) is set to introduce shuttle services connecting Ramniwas Bagh with the three primary markets within the Walled City. This decision, made during the traffic control board meeting on June 10, will see the deployment of six buses dedicated to this new route.
Confirming the development, a JCTSL official disclosed that the finalisation of the shuttle routes and the subsequent clearance from the traffic department are the next steps. “Except for two to three roads, entry for large vehicles is restricted within the Walled City. We are awaiting the final clearance from the traffic department to commence these services. Meanwhile, we have allocated six small buses from our fleet for these shuttle services,” stated Meena.
Previously, media reports highlighted that the Urban Development and Housing (UDH) department was contemplating the introduction of shuttle bus or e-rickshaw services to enhance the feasibility of parking lot projects executed by the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA). The parking complexes at Ramniwas Bagh can accommodate up to 2,445 vehicles, but they have seen minimal utilisation, with only about 500 vehicles parked on days when traffic restrictions are enforced inside the Walled City due to VVIP movements or other processions. Officials attribute this low turnout to the inconvenience faced by people who need to walk a significant distance to reach marketplaces across the congested MI Road.
The implementation of the shuttle service is expected to resolve this issue by providing a seamless transit option for visitors, thereby encouraging the use of the underutilised parking facilities at Ramniwas Bagh. This initiative aligns with broader urban development goals to alleviate congestion and enhance accessibility within the historic core of Jaipur.
The introduction of these shuttle services is anticipated to significantly benefit both residents and visitors, reducing the dependency on private vehicles and promoting the use of public transport. Moreover, it represents a step towards more sustainable urban mobility solutions in the city.
