The policy address delivered by Governor Rajendra Arlekar in the Assembly here on Friday reiterated the State government’s vision to revolutionise the transport sector, including road, water, and air transport. The Governor declared the State government’s commitment to making travel on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses free for women in the State.

As part of supporting infrastructure development, the government will develop bypasses into four-lane roads, leveraging the benefits of public-private-partnership to generate revenue that will, in turn, be reinvested in infrastructure.

Another major focus area will be the popularisation of public transportation and shared transportation networks using mobile apps and e-ticketing to reduce reliance on personal vehicles. Public transport systems will be modernised. Digital systems, electric mobility, and improved passenger facilities will be introduced in a phased manner. Data-driven interventions and modern technology will be used to make Kerala’s roads safer, he said.

Upgrading roads

The use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology at border check-posts, which is expected to enhance tax collection, was also mentioned in the policy address. All roads in the State will also be upgraded to Bituminous Macadam and Bituminous Concrete (BM&BC) standards in a phased manner.

Further, the State government will give priority to green and eco-friendly buildings by integrating the K-Green rating and other green construction initiatives into Kerala’s design policy, with energy saving and heritage conservation accorded high priority in all works undertaken by the Public Works department.

An integrated development programme harnessing the full potential of Kerala’s 600.15-kilometre coastline, 44 rivers, 34 lakes, and four international airports has been envisaged as part of transforming the State into a port-led hub. Steps will also be taken to improve inland waterways. In addition, the State will develop the aviation sector too. The State government will develop a pipeline of aviation infrastructure projects that will position Kerala as a significant hub for civil aviation in south Asia, the Governor said.