Early Times Report
LEH, May 7: The urban public transport infrastructure in Ladakh is all set for a makeover, with the introduction of unique Ladakhi Smart Bus Shelters that would blend the passenger-friendly modern amenities with Ladakh's distinctive cultural architecture.
Lieutenant Governor of UT Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, has approved the construction of 30 Ladakhi Smart Bus Shelters in Leh. These bus shelters are architecturally inspired by Ladakhi Gonpas and feature amenities such as GPS-enabled real-time bus information systems, heated seats, Wi-Fi, CCTV surveillance, solar power, and SOS emergency response buttons. The project will be implemented by the Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (SIDCO).
At present, the existing bus stops in Leh lack adequate shelter, comfortable seating, protection from extreme weather conditions, and modern passenger amenities. The new smart bus stops will address these gaps by providing safe and comfortable waiting spaces and enhanced safety mechanisms.
The project will feature traditional Ladakhi architectural elements, including Shingtsak woodwork, decorative finishes, traditional Pentsak painting, mud plastering, lime whitewashing, prayer wheel installations, and artistic wall murals.
The smart bus stops will also be equipped with advanced Intelligent Transport System (ITS) and ICT-enabled facilities, including 55-inch Passenger Information Display Systems (PIDS), secondary LED display boards, GPS-based real-time bus tracking systems, cloud-based estimated time of arrival (ETA) software, Wi-Fi connectivity, CCTV surveillance systems, and SOS emergency response buttons.
Additional passenger amenities will include mobile and laptop charging stations, first aid kits, emergency oxygen cylinders, fire safety systems, seating arrangements, and tactile tiles for visually impaired passengers. |
