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In the city hall's response, it is stated that the claim of low tram speed is not accurate: the average speed of the tram is 17-18 km/h, while the bus reaches 19-20 km/h. However, the tram has a greater passenger capacity.
An important aspect of the new general plan is the planned rapid light rail transit (LRT), which will use dedicated lanes and have priority at intersections thanks to an intelligent transport system. The expected speed of the LRT will be 20-30 km/h, and its capacity will be up to 15,000 passengers per hour.
Moreover, the city hall emphasized that the construction of the LRT will be significantly cheaper than building a metro, monorail, or cable car, and its implementation will take less time.
The general plan also includes the creation of a bus rapid transit system (BRT) — high-capacity buses that will operate on specialized lanes, primarily on central medians. The expected capacity of the BRT is up to 9,000 passengers per hour.
The city plans to develop a network of dedicated lanes for regular and electric buses. However, the organization of routes and the payment system are not included in the tasks of the general plan, as this is a separate area of transport service.
The city hall also commented on proposals for the creation of a "two-level road" and "electric train." Overhead transport, similar to the metro, was found to be economically unfeasible due to the high cost of construction and operation, as well as difficulties with accessibility and transfers. Additionally, the geological conditions of Bishkek and the need to demolish buildings make underground metro impossible under the current general plan.
The document also includes plans for the creation of three-level transport interchange hubs (TPUs) that will connect Manas Airport with urban railway stations and tram and BRT lines. These hubs will form the basis for the city's transfer system by 2050.
The city hall noted that the routes for rapid transport have been determined based on actual passenger flows.
Proposals for the creation of rapid off-street transport in the directions of Kashka-Suu or Koi-Tash were deemed unfounded, as the density of passenger movements in these areas is low.
Recall that the project of the new general plan was presented by the municipality in early October last year for public discussion, which concluded in December.
