A recent study, supported by Biocon and conducted by researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, suggests that the Yellow Line of the Bengaluru Metro may enhance the health and overall quality of life for the large number of daily commuters using it.
The study, titled “Assessing the Impact of Yellow Line Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) System on Public Health and Quality of Life: A Sustainable Urban Mobility Perspective,” involved a detailed analysis of 600 individuals, including both commuters and residents living near the Yellow Line. Surveys were conducted both before and after the Metro became operational.
According to the findings from the IISc research team, a significant 83 percent of respondents expressed a willingness to utilize the Metro for their transportation needs, highlighting a strong interest in sustainable public transit options.
The IISc researchers noted that the Metro could encourage increased physical activity, potentially adding 10 to 15 minutes of walking to daily commutes. This is particularly relevant in a city where 58 percent of surveyed individuals reported engaging in no physical activity at all.
Additionally, the study revealed that pedestrians and two-wheeler users were subjected to the highest levels of PM 2.5 pollutants, which the Metro would help mitigate. It also indicated that those commuting via two-wheelers face a greater risk of accidents. After the Metro’s launch, commuters reported experiencing less fatigue and an improved balance between work and personal life.
Conversely, the report highlighted that among the 17 percent of participants who were initially reluctant to use the Metro, concerns about affordability were significant. Families earning below Rs 30,000 monthly expressed that the fare for distances of 10 to 20 kilometers in Bengaluru was 3 to 4 times higher than that of similar Metro systems, such as Kolkata. Furthermore, issues related to last-mile connectivity were prevalent for those residing more than 2 kilometers from a Metro station.
Professor Ashish Verma, who led the IISc research team, emphasized the importance of integrating shared, electric, and active transportation modes not only as sustainable mobility solutions but also as key components of urban liveability and well-being.
The report concluded with policy recommendations for local authorities, urging the implementation of affordable fare structures to enhance Metro accessibility. It also stressed the need for improved last-mile connectivity, including safe pedestrian infrastructure leading to Metro stations.
In addition to promoting public health within the transport planning framework, the report advocated for the Metro to be championed as a viable sustainable transportation option, which would help decrease exposure to heat and air pollution.
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