STUDY OF BRTS CORRIDOR IN NASHIK

Over the past century, Nashik has experienced remarkable population growth, expanding from 21,940 residents in 1901 to approximately 18 lakhs today. This growth rate surpasses that of any other city in Maharashtra, making Nashik the fourth largest in terms of population. Situated along the Delhi – Mumbai Industrial Corridor and part of Maharashtra’s Golden Triangle project, Nashik plays a pivotal role in India’s economic landscape. However, this rapid expansion has strained the city’s transportation infrastructure, leading to congestion and safety concerns. The current road network, including national and state highways, struggles to accommodate the increasing volume of vehicles, hindering efficient movement. Moreover, inadequate provisions for pedestrians and cyclists exacerbate these challenges. To address these issues and foster sustainable development, there is a pressing need for a comprehensive transportation system that caters to all stakeholders, including motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and heavy vehicle operators. Sustainable transport aims to minimize environmental impact and social costs, emphasizing modes of transport that reduce emissions and promote efficiency. Recognizing the importance of sustainable urban transport, the Indian government has initiated various measures, including the formulation of the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) and the promotion of clean development mechanisms. However, significant improvements in both road and rail-based mass transit systems are still required to meet the growing demands of Nashik’s population. This study aims to assess the current transport infrastructure in Nashik and explore alternative solutions for public transportation, non-motorized transport, traffic management, and pedestrian safety. With the government’s emphasis on developing smart cities, Nashik’s transportation system must evolve to accommodate the needs of its residents while minimizing environmental impact and enhancin